HC Deb 04 March 1968 vol 760 cc26-7
35. Mr. Pavitt

asked the Lord President of the Council why oral Questions to the Minister of Health have been transferred to Tuesdays; and what was the date when health Questions were last designated for answer on a day other than Monday.

The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Richard Crossman)

The change was made following the usual consultations which take place before each new roster is issued. The last date on which the Minister of Health answered Questions on a day other than Monday was Thursday, 5th August, 1954.

Mr. Pavitt

Can my right hon. Friend say how many consultations he had with the Ministry of Health and did the Minister of Health agree? Why does health seem to have such a low priority with this Government?

Mr. Crossman

I am a little bewildered by my hon. Friend's view that a place on Monday gives top priority, because there are Ministers, and also hon. Members, who feel that Monday is not a top priority day. The change was made at the request of the Opposition, who wanted either Social Security or Health Questions to be taken on Mondays. We thought it a reasonable request and a better spacing of Questions.

Sir J. Vaughan-Morgan

Will the Lord President of the Council bear in mind that Prime Minister's Questions are also taken on Tuesday and that there are a very large number of Questions? Will the right hon. Gentleman give further consideration to a change back after an experimental period?

Mr. Crossman

Each roster is for an experimental period. We are very flexible in this matter, and try to suit the convenience of the House. If it is for the convenience of the House we will consider reverting to the old practice.

Mr. Pavitt

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Will my right hon. Friend answer the first part of my question?

Mr. Speaker

That is not a point of order.