§ Mr. Tam Dalyell (West Lothian)I beg to ask leave to move the Adjournment of the House under Standing Order No. 9 for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that should have urgent consideration; namely,
the reluctance of the British Government to join the Governments of Canada, Australia and New Zealand, Chile, Japan and other countries to protest against French nuclear testing.This matter is urgent because an evil atmospheric explosion has already taken place. It is specific because, although the French Government have not confirmed it, we have ample evidence from the New Zealand warship "Otago". If Mr. Trudeau of Canada, with his French-Canadian problems, can afford to protest, so can the British Government.It is important also because we are in a position to do something about it, in that the British Prime Minister is supposed to have a special relationship with President Pompidou, and President Pompidou can call off these tests. I therefore submit that this is a matter of urgency.
§ Mr. SpeakerMy decision reflects not at all on the merits of the case. I simply have to say whether or not under Standing Order No. 9 we should have another debate on this matter. I cannot accept the hon. Member's request.