I move for leave to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to make provision for the control and regulation of the production and marketing of bacon and to make provision for divers matters connected therewith, including the regulation of the price of pigs.
In Committee on Finance. - Pigs and Bacon Bill, 1934—First Stage.
When is it proposed to circulate the Bill?
Dr. Ryan:
I hope to have it circulated at least a fortnight before the Second Reading.
When will that be?
Dr. Ryan:
13th February.
The scheme has been adumbrated and we know it is coming. A great many people are, therefore, postponing decisions in respect of their business until they see the text of the Bill. Considerable inconvenience is being caused in the bacon-curing industry by the long delay in producing the Bill. If the Bill could be circulated in any form which would indicate the general principles on which the Minister proposes to proceed, it would greatly relieve the situation. By amendment in Committee, the Minister could recast the Bill in any way that would appear desirable. It is very inconvenient to have this Bill hanging over our heads without any possibility of adapting our decisions to the situation that will be created by the passing of the Bill into law.
Dr. Ryan:
The Deputy refers to representatives of the factories?
Yes.
Dr. Ryan:
They know what is in the Bill, because they were consulted on every proposed change from the recommendations contained in the report. They consented to every change which will be contained in the Bill.
I am in possession, as the Minister probably knows, of all the communications which he has addressed to the Bacon Manufacturers' Council, but I suggest it is time he circulated the Bill. If he has a draft Bill, why not let us see it?
Dr. Ryan:
It will be circulated as soon as ready.
For the purpose of bringing about stability, it is important that the Bill should be circulated as soon as possible.
Dr. Ryan:
I said it would be circulated a fortnight before Second Reading. That does not prevent me from circulating it a month before, if it is ready.
Question put and agreed to.
Second Stage ordered for 13th February.
Will this Bill be taken before the Courts of Justice Bill?
Dr. Ryan:
I think that it is more urgent.
Will it be taken before it?
Dr. Ryan:
I cannot say.