The purpose of the Bill, as Senators are well aware, is to continue for a further period the Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Acts, 1923 to 1952, which will expire on 31st March next.
Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Bill, 1953—Second and Subsequent Stages.
Question proposed: "That the Bill be now read a Second Time."
I take it that this will be the last time that we will be asked to pass this Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Bill, although the lack of progress made in the other House would appear to indicate that the date the Minister has asked for is not too lengthy. Perhaps I am being too pessimistic.
Question put and agreed to.
Agreed that the remaining stages be taken to-day.
Bill put through Committee, reported without amendment, received for final consideration and passed.