It is proposed to take business in the following order: Nos. 1, 6, 7, 12—Vote 47, which is to be taken with No. 7—Nos. 8, 9, 3, and 10. If not already reached, it is proposed to interrupt business at 7 o'clock to take Nos. 7, 12—Vote 47—8, 9, 3 and 10, and to resume the Order at 8 p.m.
Order of Business.
On the order of business, I understand there is some suggestion that the Prices Bill is not to be taken this week. The Taoiseach will appreciate that while it is generally likely that there will be a Second Stage discussion, taking the Second Stage and the other Stage next week may impose too much of a strain on the timetable. Would the Taoiseach consider taking the Prices Bill this week?
I am afraid that the Government would not be in a position to take it earlier than Tuesday next. We are reaching the stage when the Whips might have another talk to see what arrangements might be made with a view to bringing existing business to a termination.
They will not get a lot done after looking at a 100-page Bill.
Is there a tentative date for the adjournment?
I think it should be possible to adjourn next week but this may require some longer than normal sittings. I doubt if we will be able to decide what is possible before we see how far we get this week.
It is about time these discussions were held.
I am all in favour of that.
Are the Government having second thoughts on the Prices Bill?
No, they are not. The House may expect a comprehensive statement.