§ 37. Mr. Martenasked the Lord Privy Seal how many hon. Members have now informed him of their support for the proposals that new Members desiring to take their seats may be called on to do so immediately after Question Time, rather than after the end of Statements to the House.
§ Mr. PeartI have had representations only from the hon. Member himself, although I see that five other hon. Members have signed the Early Day Motion tabled by the hon. Member for Banbury (Mr. Marten).
§ Mr. MartenDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that that small number is mainly because it was during the Recess? Could the Minister not take appropriate action such as referring it to the Committee on Procedure? This is a very simple, very small matter, and there are three by-elections pending.
§ Mr. PeartI understand the hon. Member's concern on this question. As he said, it is a simple, small matter. I do not detect any major volume of opinion in the House for a change. I have noted what he says, but I do not think that I could change it.