HC Deb 26 May 1903 vol 122 cc1808-9
MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

I wish to ask a Question on a point of order—

MR. SPEAKER

Recently arising?

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

Yes, Sir, I think so. In regard to Questions—

MR. SPEAKER

I think the hon. Member had better speak to me personally. It is, as I understand, not a question of order immediately arising.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

With all respect, Sir, I have spoken to you. I told you I had a complaint to make with reference to a Question I handed in at the Table and which is not on the Paper. Am I not entitled to put the Question, down?

MR. SPEAKER

If the hon. Member will come to me I shall be very glad to give him my view whether or not the Question should appear on the Paper. This is not a question of order in the sense that it can be raised during the business of the House.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

For the convenience of hon. Members generally, I desire to ask whether in the event of a Question put in not being on the Paper an hon. Member has any remedy other than that of consulting you in the matter.

MR. SPEAKER

No, I think not, under the procedure of the House. If the House is not content with that amount of control over the Questions it is open to it to make other rules.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

What particular rule or order is there dealing with the treatment of irregular Questions?

MR. SPEAKER

I do not say there is any printed rule or order, but there has been a certain practice observed for many years.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

I speak to you later, Sir.