Part of Oral Answers to Questions — Scotland. – in the House of Commons at on 30 January 1940.
Captain John McEwen
, Berwickshire and Haddingtonshire
Replies to the circular letter referred to have been received from nine of the 12 probation areas concerned. The replies indicate that in the nine areas only four of the probation committees and two of the local authorities are in favour and that seven local authorities are averse to an immediate Amendment of the existing rules. My right hon. Friend has carefully considered the position in the light of these replies and of the circumstances now obtaining and regrets that he does not feel able to indicate an immediate prospect of amendment of the rules. The position is, however, being kept under review, and any proposals which individual local authorities may submit with regard to the remuneration of probation officers in their area will have careful consideration.
As a bill passes through Parliament, MPs and peers may suggest amendments - or changes - which they believe will improve the quality of the legislation.
Many hundreds of amendments are proposed by members to major bills as they pass through committee stage, report stage and third reading in both Houses of Parliament.
In the end only a handful of amendments will be incorporated into any bill.
The Speaker - or the chairman in the case of standing committees - has the power to select which amendments should be debated.
