HC Deb 14 May 1924 vol 173 cc1368-9W
Mr. A. T. DAVIES

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the grave inconvenience to practising solicitors due to the present uncertainty as to the Government's intentions regarding the Law of Property Act, 1922, since it is generally admitted that it is impossible for this Act to come into force, as intended, on 1st January next, in its present form; whether a systematic codification of other portions of the Act is now under codification; whether he is aware that no reliable books of precedents have been issued; and what is the Government's intention with regard to this Act as to its postponement, wholly or in part?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL

I have been asked to reply. I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave to a similar question addressed to me by the hon. Member for Bodmin (Mr. Foot) on 2nd April last. The Consolidation Bills rendered necessary by the passing of the Law of Property Act, 1922, have not yet been received. It is, I think, clear that it will be necessary to postpone the date when the changes in the laws would come into operation from the 1st January, 1925, to the 1st Januray, 1926.

Lieut-Colonel RUDKIN

asked the Attorney-General if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Law of Property Act, 1922, as the law now stands, will come into operation on the 1st January next; whether he is aware of the widespread feeling in the legal profession in favour of its postponement for at least one year; and whether the provisions of the Administration of Justice Bill or some other Bill will effect this object?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the answer I gave to a similar question addressed to mo by the hon. Member for Bodmin (Mr. Foot) on the 2nd April last. The Consolidation Bills, rendered necessary by the passing of the Law of Property Act, 1922, have not yet been received. It is, I think, clear that it will be necessary to postpone the date when the changes in the laws would come into operation from the 1st January, 1925, to the 1st January, 1926, but I cannot at present say by what means any such change will be effected.