§ Mr. RoebuckMr. Speaker, I wish to move the Adjournment of the House under Standing Order No. 9 for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter which should have urgent consideration, namely,
the situation which has been created by the statement made by the President of France yesterday which makes it necessary for Her Majesty's Government to reconsider their application to join the European Economic Community and their export policy.It is my submission that it is self-evident that yesterday's statement was specific and that this is an important matter. I believe it to be urgent not only because a new situation has arisen, one wholly unexpected by the biggest majority which this House has had for many years, but also because speedy adjustments need to be made in the light of this situation.Many of our trading partners are now in a quandary because of the possibility of our entering the E.E.C. or not entering it, and in the new economic climate which has been created by devaluation it is important that swift decisions should be made so that the maximum benefit can be obtained from the new policy. The nation needs an immediate and clear lead in this matter and our constituents expect us to get our teeth into the situation forthwith.
I therefore respectfully submit that the House should adjourn to discuss this important matter.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Member for Harrow, East (Mr. Roebuck) asks leave to move the Adjournment of the House for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter which he thinks should have urgent consideration, namely,
the situation created by the statement of the President of France yesterday which makes it necessary for Her Majesty's Government to reconsider their application to join the European Economic Community and their export policy.I am grateful to the hon. Member for his courtesy in giving me ample notice early this morning of his intention to raise this important question. This has enabled me to consider all the issues which he has raised.The House will remember that under the revised Standing Order No. 9, agreed to on 14th November, Mr. Speaker is directed to take into account the several factors set out in that Order, but to give no reason for his decision.
In the light of the new provision I now rule that the hon. Member's submission does not fall within the provisions of the revised Standing Order and, therefore, I cannot submit his application to the House.
§ Mr. EnglishI entirely accept your Ruling, Mr. Speaker, but I believe that it should not go on record that Mr. Speaker is directed to give no reason. Mr. Speaker is not obliged to give any reason, which is a slightly different matter.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe House will note the correction which the hon. Member has made.