On the 25th April. I would like to state, with reference to certain undertakings which I gave on the previous stage, that I promised to consider whether the amount, £15, ought not to be increased.
I would not like Deputies to assume that because there is no amendment put down dealing with the matter that it was not looked into. I did consider it and discuss the matter, and have come to the conclusion that it is neither necessary nor advisable to increase the amount because, in fact, no under-sheriff sails at all close to the mark in making a seizure. It is never a matter of actually seizing down to the pennyworth or shilling's-worth of the £15, and the £15 in the law as it stands is an adequate margin having regard to the fact that it is never just a question of that exact sum.
I gave one other undertaking in connection with an amendment which Deputy Heffernan was pressing, dealing with the matter of third party claims. I looked into that also, and directed that Deputy Heffernan would be notified that I was not putting down any amendment. I am afraid the notification may possibly have reached the Deputy after the time for accepting amendments had expired. If that is so, and the Deputy has an amendment which he wishes to move, I would ask that the Standing Orders be not rigidly applied against him. I looked into the matter, and I am standing over the section as it is; and I do not see that there is room for an amendment. Any kind of an amendment that would be proposed to it would simply mean that the section might as well be deleted from the Bill, and it is considered a very important section. I am not moving an amendment, and would oppose any amendment moved: but, in view of the promise given to the Deputy, I would ask that the Deputy's amendment, if moved, should be considered and discussed.
