I move:
That leave be granted to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to amend the Punishment of Incest Act, 1908 so as to provide for a maximum penalty of 20 years for the offence of incest.
Punishment of Incest (Amendment) Bill, 1993: First Stage.
Does the Deputy not mean a minimum sentence of 20 years?
Please, these interruptions must cease.
As I understand it, Sir, the usual procedure, if the First Stage is accepted, is that the Second Stage would be taken in Private Members' Time. May I invite the Government to give time tomorrow to this House to take all Stages of this very short Bill, which is of substantial importance?
Is this Bill opposed?
No, it is not. I would like to remind the Deputy that none of us would look forward to "Shatter rule" in this House or country, but if he thought of removing his services elsewhere we would all be delighted.
That is a cheap reply to a serious issue.
Why did the Government not introduce its Bill?
I have already drawn the attention of the House to the urgent action being taken by the Minister for Justice on behalf of the Government.
Sir——
Sorry——
I will be very brief.
No, there will be no debate now.
Question put and agreed to.
Since this is a Private Members' Bill, under Standing Orders Second Stage shall be taken in Private Members' Time.