George Alexander Drew (Leader of the Official Opposition)
Progressive Conservative
Mr. George A. Drew (Leader of ihe Opposition):
Mr. Speaker, in the ordinary
course of events I would readily concur in the suggestion, but we were assured that all the legislation that we would have to consider was before us. Amendments to the elections act should not be suddenly hurried through in the closing days of this session. I know that there is one reason put forward why it should be considered, but when it was indicated to me that this course might be followed I stated the objection I would have. It was indicated that it was hoped to hold a municipal election in the Northwest Territories. However, that would only call for a single amendment to the elections act as it stands. I would readily concur in the introduction of that amendment so that the election in question could, be proceeded with without delay, but I want to make it clear that consideration of amendments to an act as important as this should not be rushed.
It is true that amendments to the act have been considered by a committee, but there are a number of provisions in the act, relating not only to content but also to the form and wording of the sections, which might easily involve considerable discussion. For that reason, while I am most anxious to facilitate the business of the house, I do not propose to let the desire to complete that business interfere with adequate discussion of legislation coming before us.
I will agree to the introduction of notice of an amendment simply to provide for the municipal election which is under discussion, but I regret I cannot agree to any motion which would seek to bring before us at this time the whole elections act unless it is understood that we shall continue to sit for some considerable time to deal with it.
Subtopic: PROCEDURE IN DEALING WITH PROPOSED AMENDMENTS