Order for Second Reading read.

I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time."

I appeal to the House to allow this Bill to go to a Committee. The killing of animals for food is cruel, but none of us wants to see cruelty to a greater extent than is necessary. I have been in touch with the Butchers' Federation, and find that they are as anxious as we are for the purpose of the Bill. But they want some alterations, and I have undertaken to consent to those alterations in Committee; for instance, that an expert Committee shall advise, not only on the suitability of the instrument, but also on its effect on the meat on which it is used.

I appeal to the House to allow the Bill to go to Second Reading. I am associated with the trade which has very much to do with the slaughter of animals.

On a point of Order. May I ask whether the Four o'Clock Rule has been suspended?

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER:

The. Rule is not suspended, but discussion is allowed if no objection be persisted in.

I am at a loss to know whether it is in order to introduce a Bill after the hour of adjournment.

Mr. DEPUTY-SPEAKER:

Yes, it is in order, but if any hon. Member persists in objecting to it, the objection will hold good.

I persist in my objection.

Second Reading deferred till Monday next.