HC Deb 18 December 1962 vol 669 c1223

Order for Second reading read.

Motion made, and Question put (pursuant to Standing Order No. 60 (Public Bills relating exclusively to Scotland)), That the Bill be committed to the Scottish Standing Committee. — [Mr. Hughes-Young.]

Mr. George Lawson (Motherwell)

On a point of order. Are we not to have a Scottish Minister moving this Motion?

Mr. Speaker

That is not a point of order for me.

Mr. Lawson

May I draw your attention to the fact, Mr. Speaker, that not one Scottish Minister is present?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member may draw my attention to the fact, but the totality of the exercise upon myself is precisely nil.

Question agreed to.

Bill (deemed to have been read a Second time) committed to the Scottish Standing Committee.

Mr. Lawson

Now that the Secretary of State has arrived in the Chamber, are we not be given an explanation?

Mr. Speaker

I intend no discourtesy to the hon. Member for Motherwell (Mr. Lawson), but I have been compelled to move to the next item on the Order Paper and we have got past the point where his observations were relevant.