HC Deb 26 June 1952 vol 502 c2656

Motion made, and Question put, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill."

The DEPUTY-CHAIRMAN declared that the "Ayes" had it.

Mr. Benn

On a point of order. When you put the Question, Mr. Hopkin Morris, I was on my feet, but you collected the voices.

The Deputy-Chairman

Order. I did not see the hon. Member on his feet before I collected the voices.

Mr. Hale

In forthright voice which could be heard all over the Chamber my hon. Friend addressed you by name before you collected the voices, Mr. Hopkin Morris.

The Deputy-Chairman

I certainly neither saw nor heard the hon. Member.

Mr. Paget

With great respect, Mr. Hopkin Morris, surely it is your duty in the Chair—— [Interruption]

The Deputy-Chairman

I cannot have that said.

Mr. Paget

May I ask your guidance, Mr. Hopkin Morris? Is it not the duty of the Chair, before putting a Question, to see whether any hon. Member wishes to address the Committee?

The Deputy-Chairman

I do my best to carry that out.

Mr. Hale

May I venture to suggest, with great respect, that there was no difficulty this time? You started to put the Question and——

The Deputy-Chairman

I cannot have that argued now. I have given my decision.

Clause ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Schedule agreed to.

Bill reported, with Amendments; as amended, to be considered upon Monday next, and to be printed [Bill 125].