HC Deb 28 July 1930 vol 242 cc41-2
Mr. E. BROWN

I beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House to call attention to a definite matter of urgent public importance, namely: the decision of the Government to erect unsightly buildings on the Calton site, Edinburgh.

Mr. SPEAKER

This question does not come within the terms of the Standing Order, and therefore I cannot allow the hon. Member to move the Adjournment.

Mr. BROWN

May I point out that the First Commissioner of Works has refused to give an assurance that a decision on a modified plan will not be taken during the Recess? May I urge that that should have some weight with you? Otherwise, the only opportunity we shall have of raising this matter is on the Appropriation Bill, which is not an effective opportunity.

Sir P. FORD

May I point out to you, Sir, that when you very properly refused to allow further questions on this subject it was on the understanding that we should have an opportunity of raising the question on the Adjournment?

Mr. SPEAKER

I certainly did not say any such thing.

Sir P. FORD

Then I apologise, Sir.

Mr. LANSBURY

Will you allow me to say to the hon. Member for Leith (Mr. E. Brown) and to the hon. Baronet that neither the Department nor the Government have any idea of flouting the opinion of the House, and as it is a matter of only three months, and perhaps a little less, I am quite willing to give the hon. Member the assurance he asks on the subject.

Mr. BROWN

I thank the right hon. Member.

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