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Fraud (Trials without a Jury) Bill

I shall be brief, as I am conscious that others wish to speak and that the Bill’s Report stage is coming to an end. I entirely support the amendment of my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Sleaford and North Hykeham (Mr. Hogg). It is wholly desirable that there should be a further opportunity for the House to use the affirmative procedure before this dreadful Bill is brought into effect. Losing the protection of the affirmative procedure is wholly undesirable. As a matter of principle and in view of my attitude towards the Bill generally, it would be a very good thing if the House were to support the amendment.