HC Deb 01 July 1968 vol 767 cc1086-7
35. Mr. Worsley

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will move that it be a standing order that seven clear days' notice be given of the first meeting of a Standing Committee on any Bill.

The Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Fred Peart)

I should not wish to propose such a change without prior consideration by the Select Committee on Procedure.

Mr. Worsley

In that case, will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Select Committee? Is he aware that it is very important that hon. Members with outside interests should have at least seven days' notice of the first meeting of a Standing Committee in order that they may discuss Bills properly?

Mr. Peart

I will note what the hon. Gentleman has said. The position is not unusual, but I take note of his remarks.

36. Mr. Worsley

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will move to amend the practice of the House so that in no circumstances may two Bills be taken in a Standing Committee on the same morning.

Mr. Peart

No, Sir.

Mr. Worsley

I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will consider this point. It is not a party matter. It is for the convenience, not only of hon. Members but of the many people who wish to make representations, that they should know when the Committee is to meet.

Mr. Peart

I accept that this is an important matter. Of course, this does happen on a number of occasions and it affects mainly Private Members' Bills. I do not think that I can change this now, for obvious reasons, but if the hon. Gentleman would like to have more detailed information I should be glad to speak with him.