HC Deb 21 June 1972 vol 839 c478

Motion made, and Question proposed, That at this day's sitting the Proceedings on any amendments proposed to be moved on consideration of the United Reformed Church Bill [Lords], as amended, may be proceeded with at any hour, though opposed, for a period of one hour after the said proceedings have been entered upon.—[Mr. R. Carr.]

Rev. Ian Paisley

May I ask for your guidance on this matter, Mr. Speaker? Does the Motion mean that discussion on the United Reformed Church Bill will be limited to one hour only, or will the Bill be considered after Twelve o'clock for a period and further time allowed for consideration of the Amendments?

Mr. Speaker

It certainly does not mean that consideration is limited to one hour.

Mr. Spearing

Does it mean that the period for debate will be three hours, as is normal on Private Business, and, if there should be Divisions at 2 a.m., the business will go through? If that is so, may I express my thanks to you, Mr. Speaker, for the request which you made subsequent to the proceedings on Friday and to the Leader of the House about putting down the Motion? Contrary to anything that may be said or written, I wish to place on record that I desire the Bill to go through—if possible, with amendment.

Mr. Speaker

It means that the Bill will be considered for the period mentioned by the hon. Gentleman plus the hour referred to in the Motion.

Question put and agreed to.