§ The following Question stood upon the Order Paper:
§ 56. Sir R. BoothbyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether Her Majesty's Government will recommend the appointment of a Royal Commission to examine the existing legislation in respect of sexual offences and the present treatment of adult sexual delinquents, with particular reference to homosexuality; and to make recommendations as to what changes are desirable in the light of modern scientific know ledge and of recent discoveries in the fields of psychology and psychiatry.
§ A t the end of Questions—
§ Sir R. BoothbyOn a point of order. Question No. 56 on today's Order Paper is in my name. Just as I was about to spring to my feet to ask it, Mr. Speaker, to my astonishment you called the Leader of the Opposition to ask about next week's business. Half a minute later the clock struck half-past three. I heard it myself when I was outside the door. I should like to ask whether I have any remedy—whether I can defer the Question to a later stage, or can put it now. I was disappointed, as there was definitely half a minute to spare.
§ Mr. SpeakerI am sorry. Occasionally, there is a slight deviation among the clocks in this building. I understood that the hon. Member has already deferred his Question.
§ Sir R. BoothbyYes, but I would much rather ask it now, Sir.