§ Sir Harmar NichollsOn a point of order. May I have your guidance and, if possible, help, Mr. Speaker?
Today, we shall debate the Consolidated Fund Bill, which is well known to be a day when back benchers are able to bring the influence of Parliament to bear on the nation's affairs. Yet on this day we have two Government statements and, after that, Government business—[HON. MEMBERS: "Sit down."] This is important—and then a debate on a question of privilege. Not until after all that will start the debates on the Consolidated Fund Bill.
Is there any way in which the Chair can bring pressure on the Leader of the House to see that the rights of back benchers are protected and that back benchers are not treated in this disgraceful way?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Gentleman will not be unaware that Mr. Speaker knows the heavy nature of the work that 574 not only the House but Mr. Speaker must undertake all this week. This, however, is a matter which the hon. Gentleman must take up with the Government, and is not a matter for the Chair.