§ Q6. Mr. Pavittasked the Prime Minister by what criteria he judges whether announcements of Government policy should be given to the House of Commons in the first instance, before being released either to the Press or via television.
§ The Prime MinisterI would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ellis Smith) on 12th December.
§ Mr. PavittWould it not be more consistent with the dignity and prestige of the House of Commons had the right hon. Gentleman made his announcement about a General Election in this place? Would not it have been helpful to the Prime Minister in his endeavours to become a good House of Commons man had he taken that action?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. I did my best and consulted all the precedents there were. I think that I took the right decision.
§ Mr. RidleyIs not it up to the Leader of the House to make available some day when we may hear what is the Opposition policy for a change?