There is a matter that Senator Douglas has mentioned to me—I think it is the only time he has been caught out in his Senatorial experience—with reference to the Dublin United Tramways Bill. He omitted to ask that that Bill should be referred to a committee.
STATE LANDS BILL, 1924.—FINAL STAGES. - PRIVATE BILL PROCEDURE.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
Since I spoke to you I have come to the conclusion that I was really not in error, as the Standing Orders provide that the Bill shall be automatically referred to a Committee, and that a Message be sent to the Dáil. It will be necesary in future, as soon as any Private Bill or Provisional Order Bill passes the Second Stage, for an order to be made by the Chairman, without formal motion, that the Bill stands referred to a Joint Committee of both Houses and that a Message be sent to the Dáil asking for concurrence. A motion will only be necessary if the Seanad decides not to send it to a Joint Committee.