HC Deb 26 February 1969 vol 778 cc1734-5
Mr. Marten

On a point of order. May I raise with you, Mr. Speaker, a point which I would have raised during Question Time, but which I did not raise because I did not wish to delay the proceedings?

In aswer to my Question No. 17 to the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, I was referred to a speech made on 4th July, 1967. For the benefit of the House, would you agree that we should try to get away from this business of hiding behind previous comments, so enabling Ministers not to give real Answers? Are you aware that in this case I was referred to a speech which was made 19 months ago?

Mr. Speaker

During the long time that I have been in Parliament, Ministers have referred to previous Answers. It is not within my power to prevent them from answering Questions in the way they choose.

I am glad that the hon. Member has waited until after Question Time to raise this matter. Points of order raised during Question Time cost hon. Members their Questions.