Speech #620266929

I Applause.] So far as the rule itself is concerned. I venture to say that no more liberal method of procedure was ever introduced into this House than is embodied in the provisions of this rule. If I had the time I would call attention to the rule under which. on June 25. 1906. the immigration bill now on the statute book was considered. ant also the rule under which- the great purefood [ill. on July 20. 1906. was considered. In both instances tile consideration of the House was restricted to the measure reported by the House. excluding consideration of the measure reported by the Senate. while in this case the broadest opportunity is afforded to express the preference of the House as between the Senate bill and the Iouse bill. General debate of four hours is liberal. but we all know that general debate means nothing. and. so far as debate under the fiveminute rule is concerned. it is unlimited under the provisions of the rule. and will proceed as long as the Members in Committee of tIle Whole desire to offer amendments and to consider the povistarts of the bill.