HC Deb 24 June 1963 vol 679 c952
Mr. Thorpe

May I raise, Mr. Speaker, a further point of Privilege of a more minor matter but one which, in my respectful submission, affects the rights of Members?

I have just received a letter from Messrs. Sharpe Prichard & Co., Palace Chambers, Bridge Street, with reference to the Clywedog Reservoir Joint Authority Bill. The letter reads: We are instructed to inform you that the Committee of the Promoters of the Bill this morning considered the Amendments standing in your name to be moved on consideration. The Committee are prepared to agree to these Amendments subject to you and the other Members who put their names to the Amendments refraining from further opposition to the Bill. In the circumstances we are informing the Chairman of Ways and Means that the Promoters agree these Amendments and we assume that you or one of the other Members will formally move them tomorrow. I submit that not only is it improper to ask an hon. Member to refrain from opposition to any Measure which will come before the House, or is before the House, but that it constitutes an attack on the privileges of this House.

Mr. Speaker

Will the hon. Member please let me have the letter?

Letter handed in.

Mr. Speaker

My reading matter is now complete. I will consider the hon. Member's complaint and rule upon it tomorrow.