HC Deb 21 April 1958 vol 586 c619
Mr. Chetwynd

On a point of order. In view of the many Questions on the subject of poliomyelitis vaccine, has the Minister offered to make any statement on this subject?

Mr. Speaker

That suggestion has not been made to me before Questions. A Written Answer will appear.

Mr. J. Griffiths

There have been widespread reports in the Press that the Minister was to make a statement today, and Members have been expecting it. Can you guide us, Mr. Speaker, and say whether, when there appears to be an official report from the Government that an important statement is to be made, we can at least ask the Minister to make a statement?

Mr. Speaker

I am afraid not. There is a strict rule on that matter. If the Minister desires to make a statement after the time for Questions has run out he should ask beforehand, otherwise we should always be having certain Questions which are not reached asked after the end of Questions. I do not think that would work.