Deputies will see from the Order Paper that the first business is the Meath Hospital Bill, 1950, Second Stage. I am told that that Bill is not being proceeded with. I think that Item No. 18—Intoxicating Liquor (Amendment) Bill, 1950, Second Stage—has been postponed. The Minister is away, and I understand that Deputy Corry does not wish to proceed with it in his absence.
Private Deputies' Business.
In that connection, I should like to say that when the Bill was first brought to the House in November. 1948, we got a statement from the Minister that he intended to introduce a comprehensive measure. On 1st March last, when I again raised the matter, the Minister made the statement that this matter and others relating to the licensing laws had been under consideration by his Department, and that he intended submitting to the Government proposals in connection with them. I am wondering——
Is this being proceeded with?
The Deputy says not, and he is giving the reasons.
——if these proposals have yet been submitted to the Government.
Is the Deputy proceeding with the Bill or not?
I should like to have that explanation from the Minister, but he is not here and, therefore, I should like to have it adjourned.
That is precisely what was stated from the Chair. The next item is Item No. 19—Betting Bill, 1948, Second Stage.
When is this going to come off?
I understand that it has been postponed.
Has Deputy Collins got cold feet? Is he a non-starter?
I think the Minister for Justice is involved and he is absent.
He had ample time to consider the Bill. I think it ought to be scratched.
It is not being proceeded with and, therefore, cannot be discussed.