HC Deb 23 June 1972 vol 839 cc888-9
Mr. Harold Wilson

On a point of order. We have just had an important statement and the right hon. Gentleman said that the Leader of the House would have heard our request for an immediate debate. May I ask the Leader of the House to intervene now, because it will affect next week's business, to take note of the fact that in a similar situation the Labour Government agreed to a two-day debate in Government time.

As floating the £ is unprecedented, would the right hon. Gentleman say that he is ready to enter into immediate talks with a view to a debate in Government time for the Government to defend the situation that has been created.

The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Robert Carr)

First, the situation is not at all similar. But of course I will consider this matter. We should have discussions through the normal channels.

I should have thought that the House would wish to see the situation on Tuesday when the exchanges re-open before we consider having a debate on the implications. However, I repeat that I will consider it and that we should discuss it through the usual channels.

Mr. Harold Wilson

Of course the House will need to watch developments during this period, although some foreign exchange markets are open. The Chancellor did not say what information he had received about some of the European market movements this morning. However, I recognise what the right hon. Gentleman has said about Tuesday.

In the discussions through the usual channels, will he note that a debate on, perhaps, next Thursday might be highly appropriate in the circumstances? It would show the urgency that is needed, but at the same time it would give the House time to adjust itself to any new changes in the temporary foreign exchange situation and also to know more about the exact workings of these rather serious and grave steps, such as control of the arrangements with the sterling area, which is new. Would the right hon. Gentleman consider the possibility of a debate on Thursday?

Mr. R. Carr

I have already said that of course I will consider these matters and that we will discuss them through the usual channels.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

Surely we may have an assurance from the right hon. Gentleman that, whether the debate is on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, there is no question of the Government trying to slip through this important change without providing time for a day's debate at an early opportunity.

Mr. R. Carr

The right hon. Gentleman should know that I did not say that. I gave the perfectly normal reply, which all Leaders of the House in these circumstances give—that the matter must be considered. I will consider it, but we will discuss it through the usual channels.