QUESTIONS TO MINISTERS (Hansard, 18 October 1971)

§ Mrs. Shirley Williams
On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I understand, Mr. Speaker, that you felt unable to accept a Private Notice Question on the subject of the use of patients as guinea pigs without their consent. As it is impossible to raise this matter in normal Parliamentary Questions before the end of the Session, because the Department involved is not due to answer Parliamentary Questions, may I seek your guidance as to how best to persuade the Minister responsible to make an early statement?

§ Mr. Speaker
Although that was on a point of order, the hon. Lady was out of order. She is not really allowed to say what she has said, but no doubt she has made her point.

§ Mr. Molloy
Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. May I ask for your guidance as to whether you could indicate any other way that an issue causing grave concern throughout the nation can be raised in this Parliament so that the people concerned can have some idea that this House of Commons is aware of the disturbances that they are experiencing?

§ Mr. Speaker
What is not allowable is any discussion as to whether a Private Notice Question should have been allowed. Other methods are known to the hon. Member. If he wishes further guidance, I shall be very pleased to talk to him about it.