HC Deb 03 March 1969 vol 779 cc34-5
Mr. Winnick

On a point of order. I beg to ask leave to move the adjournment of the House under Standing Order No. 9 for the purpose of discussing a specific important matter that should have urgent consideration, namely, the effect of allowing the continued supply of arms from Britain to Nigeria in view of reports that civilians and hospitals in Biafra are being bombed by the Nigerian Federal authorities. I am asking for an urgent debate in view of continued reports that civilians, hospitals and clinics continue to be bombed in the break-away province of Biafra. No one has suggested that British pilots or planes are responsible, but so long as we continue to sell arms to Nigeria I imagine that we have some moral responsibility for what is taking place in Nigeria and Biafra.

I also ask for an emergency debate because, for other reasons, neither in Russia nor Egypt are there opportunities for the matter to be publicly debated, but in Britain we can debate the problem because we are a democratic community. Reports today are so disturbing that the House of Commons should not remain silent or indifferent.

For that reason, I ask you to grant an emergency debate, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member asks leave to move the adjournment of the House under Standing Order No. 9 for the purpose of discussing an urgent and important matter that he thinks should have urgent consideration, namely, the effect of allowing the continued supply of arms from Britain to Nigeria in view of reports that civilians and hospitals in Biafra are being bombed by the Nigerian Federal authorities. As the House knows, under the Standing Order No. 9 Mr. Speaker is directed to take into account the several factors set out in the Order, but to give no reasons for his decision.

I have listened carefully to the hon. Member and given careful consideration to the representation that he has made, but I have to rule that his proposition does not fall within the provisions of the revised Standing Order and, therefore, I cannot submit his application to the House.