HC Deb 17 October 1950 vol 478 c1881

The following Question stood upon the Order Paper in the name of Mr. OSBORNE:

57. To ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the value of the £ sterling to the nearest date, as compared with July, 1945.

Mr. Osborne

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker, may I ask whether Question 57 can now be answered?

Mr. Speaker

I did not call it as the time was up. It is entirely a matter for the Minister's discretion and has nothing to do with me. It is not, therefore, a point of order.

Mr. Osborne

According to the clock which I can see from here, it hardly seemed time. The Question is of great importance to us.

Mr. Speaker

I cannot see the clock behind me, but I have a watch which is very accurate—more accurate than the clocks. I have known this mistake happen before when Members have looked at the clock, which has been one minute slow or one minute fast. I am afraid I cannot do anything about it.