April 28, 1938 (18th Parliament, 3rd Session)

Mr. LAPOINTE (Quebec East):

It may be only seldom, after a bill has been read the second time and referred to a committee, has counsel been appointed. I believe however that it has been done. There is nothing in the rules to prevent it. Under the rules a committee has power to summons witnesses and to appoint counsel in respect of any matter referred to the committee. The fact that the bill has been referred after second reading does not alter the situation in any way so far as the power of the committee is concerned. On the merits of the matter I suggest the house should accept the opinion of the committee on a matter of this kind. I have no doubt that this will have the consent of the house.