HC Deb 23 January 1967 vol 739 cc966-7
40. Mr. D. Winnick

asked the Lord President of the Council when legislation will be introduced to change the procedure for the Royal Assent to Bills.

Mr. Crossman

I cannot yet give the precise date. I hope that it will be soon.

Mr. Winnick

In the meantime could not other arrangements be made to stop Black Rod coming along? Would not the Leader of the House agree that nowadays there is not the slightest justification for House of Commons business to be held up by this farce?

Mr. Crossman

I made my position clear in the debate on procedure. We are now seeking the time for legislation and it will not be long. Then the thing will be over.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered the very sensible suggestion put forward by the right hon. and Learned Gentleman the Member for the Wirral during the debate?

Mr. Crossman

Yes, I have, and I will consider it. On balance, I want to make assurance doubly sure by this small and non-controversial Bill.