I understand that the Government wish to make a statement as to their position with regard to this Bill and, accordingly, I formally move the Second Reading.
Private Deputies' Business. - Auctioneers, Valuers, House and Estate Agents Bill, 1933—Second Stage.
The position is that, while the Government are not prepared to accept the extensive provision which the measure makes for regulating and, perhaps, I should say, restricting the carrying on of the business of the Auctioneers, Valuers, House and Estate Agents Bill, it does recognise that certain steps should be taken for the better protection of the public from dishonest practitioners. A Bill is in preparation at present which, I believe, will afford that protection, and accordingly, it is not considered advisable that this Bill should be proceeded with at this stage.
Could the Minister say when that Bill will be likely to be introduced?
I take it that it will be available for the next Session.
That is after January?
Yes, after January.
In view of that statement, I move that the debate be adjourned so that the promoters can decide on their course of action.
I am prepared to accept that proposal.
Of course, it will depend on the four signatories of the Bill.
The debate on the Second Stage to be adjourned awaiting the decision of the promoters on the Government proposals.
Will it remain on the Order Paper?
Yes, pending that decision.
Then the decision is that it will go to the bottom of the Order Paper and remain there until it is brought forward in due course?
I understand from Deputy Thrift that it is not likely to be considered again, but that, in case the proposers are not satisfied with the Government proposals, it may come up again.
If we asked leave to have it discharged, I presume we could do that at any time?
Yes.
Ordered that the debate be adjourned until Wednesday, December 5.