§ 2.40 p.m.
EARL ST. ALDWYNMy Lords, in view of the large number of speakers who wish to take part in to-morrow's debate on the Beeching Report, it has been agreed through the usual channels that the debate should extend over two days. On the second day, Thursday, we shall resume the debate after the Second Reading of the Town and Country Planning Bill, on which there are only a very few speakers. It would be much appreciated if your Lordships would indicate on which of the two days you would prefer to speak, so that we may, so far as possible, meet noble Lords' wishes. The Weights and Measures Bill, which was to have been taken in Committee again on Thursday, will now be taken on Monday next, May 6, and, I hope, concluded on Tuesday, May 7.
§ EARL ALEXANDER OF HILLSBOROUGHMy Lords, I think I may have been under a misunderstanding in this matter with regard to Wednesday and Thursday. I am particularly happy to have the extra time for the debate which begins to-morrow, but I should have thought it a much better arrangement, from our point of view, if we could complete the debate as first Business on Thursday.
EARL ST. ALDWYNMy Lords, this matter was discussed through the usual channels, and I understood that noble Lords opposite were happy with the arrangement I outlined. But perhaps we could consider it further.
§ EARL ALEXANDER OF HILLSBOROUGHMy Lords, that is the best way, to consider it further. I had rather understood it the other way. My understanding may have been faulty, but at the same time I do not like this arrangement.