§ Mr. R. EdwardsMr. Speaker, on Thursday, 21st November, in the course of the debate on the Expiring Laws Continuance Bill, I stated that the Minister of Health, before becoming Minister, had advised the National and Local Government Officers Association, and had received a fee for so doing. In fact, although the right hon. and learned Gentleman did, some years ago, help this Association with advice from time to time, he did not receive any fee for so doing. I did not consult the National Association before making my remarks, which were impromptu.
I am sorry that I gave a wrong impression to the House, and I should like to express my regret to the right hon. and learned Gentleman. I was not able to make this statement earlier, due to my unavoidable absence from the House last week.
§ The Minister of Health (Mr. Derek Walker-Smith)I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for putting the record straight in this matter and I unreservedly accept his expression of regret.