6
in force only until June 1, 1939. Like all temporary measures, its greatest usefulness would be secured only if it is applied quickly for an emergency and removed when that emergency is past. There is no reason if that emergency ceases at any time before June 1, 1939 why the Ordinance should not be repealed before that date.
I hope I have said enough to show the present and pressing need for such legislation, and if it is to be passed at all I suggest, with deference, that it is the only measure of its kind in English legislation which appears to cover the present emergency. I suggest that this is a case not only for Your Excellency to allow this notice to stand valid for this meeting but also to allow suspension of Standing Orders to enable the Bill to pass through all its stages under Standing Order 29.
H.E. THE GOVERNOR.—I understand the Attorney General wishes my consent under Standing Order No. 15 to dispense with notice other than that given. That consent I give. He has also asked the Council to agree to allow suspension of Standing Order 29 (2). That will enable this Bill to pass through all its stages.
Council approved.
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY seconded, and the Bill was read a first time.
HON. SIR HENRY POLLOCK.-Your Excellency, I fully approve of the principles contained in this Bill and am glad that it is to be passed into Law forthwith at this Meeting of Council.
I have had the advantage of studying for several days past, the provisions of this measure, and I am satisfied that, whilst restraining unreasonable evictions, it is fair to landlords, and that it does not contain any clause to which any decent landlord could reasonably object.
I understand that my Unofficial Colleagues present here to-day are in favour of the principles in this Bill.
I congratulate the Honourable Attorney General upon having, by working through English legislation, discovered this useful and suitable precedent.
H.E. THE GOVERNOR.—It is not without reluctance that I caused this Bill to be submitted to this Council. It is in its nature repugnant to the ordinary principles of British legislation but of course it can be justified, and in my opinion, is justified, by the special circumstances now existing. Until quite recently, until the quite recent intensification of warfare in South China, I was of the opinion that a measure of this nature would not be justifiable, but the events of the last few days have caused me to alter my view and I may say that the Executive Council has agreed with me in so doing. As the Honourable and Learned