HC Deb 15 October 1952 vol 505 cc169-70

Motion made, and Question proposed, That an Address be presented for a Return showing the number of offences relating to Motor Vehicles in England and Wales, the number of Persons prosecuted for such offences, the results of the proceedings in Magistrates' Courts, and the number of alleged offences in respect of which written warnings were issued by the Police, together with the number of persons concerned, during 1951."—[Sir H. Lucas-Tooth.]

Sir H. Williams

Before this is passed I think it would be a good idea to have some comment from the Minister who moves it.

Mr. Speaker

These Motions for Addresses are generally taken formally at the beginning of business.

Sir H. Williams

This is the time, I understand, when contested business cannot be taken, but I am opposing this Motion at the moment.

Mr. Speaker

I am afraid that I cannot accept that, because this is information to which the House of Commons is entitled and which it has always had. Unless the hon. Member can show some cause for it, I could not accept his Motion at the moment.

Sir H. Williams

I understand that we cannot take opposed business until after Questions. We cannot have a vote now, and therefore I say that this cannot be carried nemine contradicente.

Mr. Speaker

I am afraid that I must overrule the hon. Member on that matter.

Question put, and agreed to.