§ Mr. Gordon WilsonOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I wish to raise a serious matter for Parliament in its concern with the defence of minorities within this Parliament. I refer to the question of the membership of the Committee to examine the Scottish Development Agency Bill which has only one Scottish 31 National Party Member on it, seven Conservative Members and nine Government Members, whereas in terms of voting in Scotland we represent 30 per cent. of the vote and have 11 Members of Parliament compared with 16 Conservative Scottish Members. Will you consider helping minority parties to secure justice in this House by obtaining full and ample representation on such Committees in accordance with their numbers and support in the country as a whole?
§ The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Edward Short)Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. My right hon. Friend the Chief Whip and I have heard what the hon. Gentleman has said. We will certainly be prepared to look at this.
§ Mr. David SteelIf that is to be looked at, may I ask whether the Lord President is also aware that there is no Liberal Member on that Committee?
§ Mr. SpeakerThis is not a matter over which I have any power at all. [Interruption.] Perhaps the discussions about it could take place outside this Chamber.