HC Deb 03 August 1976 vol 916 cc1473-4
Mr. Cryer

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. As you will appreciate, the House rises in three days, and I wonder whether you have it within your power to outline here and now the provisions necessary for the recall of Parliament to discuss the level of unemployment and the continuing crisis of capitalism faced by this country. If not, I wonder whether, since my right hon. Friend the Leader of the House is now present, you could ask him to outline the Government arrangements for a recall of Parliament, because the provision of employment for all our people is an overriding economic question. I should have thought that within the next two months the crisis will deepen rather than lessen, and that on that basis provision should be made for the recall of Parliament to discuss the matter.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Gentleman will know that later in the week the House will discuss, on the motion for the Adjournment, the dates of the recess. If the hon. Gentleman is fortunate, he will then have an opportunity to raise this matter in the debate. I understand that that occasion will arise on Thursday.

Mr. Cryer

Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. One is fully aware of the somewhat superficial arrangements to enable Members of Parliament to debate wide-ranging topics that are mostly close to their constituencies. I am asking for a serious announcement to be made giving an outline as to the way in which Parliament can be recalled to discuss the subject of unemployment.

Mr. Speaker

Whether the House is recalled is not a matter for me; I am merely the machinery that is used. It is a matter for the Government, if they so wish, to recall the House during a recess. I hope that we can leave the matter there.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. Will it be in order for hon. Members to discuss such subjects on the Consolidated Fund Bill debate tomorrow, to which considered answers will be given by Ministers?

Mr. Speaker

I understand that a list has already been posted showing those hon. Members who have been fortunate in the Ballot for that debate. I also gather that a list has been drawn up for the debate on the motion for the Adjournment on the last day.