HC Deb 27 January 1976 vol 904 cc246-7
Mr. Stonehouse

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. You will be aware that this afternoon the Secretary of State for Social Services was unable to answer supplementary questions regarding the provision of National Health Service pay beds for those who come from abroad to take advantage of them—

Mr. William Hamilton

From Australia.

Mr. Stonehouse

From Australia and elsewhere.

Mr. Hamilton

And from Miami Beach.

Mr. Stonehouse

The Secretary of State was unable to answer the supplementary questions because of Question No. 38 which appeared later on the Order Paper. I attempted to forgo that Question so that she could reply, but apparently that was not in order. In view of the interest being expressed in this matter, can the Secretary of State be given an opportunity to reply to that Question now?

Mr. Skinner

Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. In considering this matter perhaps you could take into account the fact that it is quite possible that the right hon. Member for Walsall, North (Mr. Stonehouse) will get his pay bed soon enough.

Mr. Speaker

I have had no such request. I am very dissatisfied with the progress made at Question Time today. The Chair has many responsibilities, but unfortunately they do not extend to long-windedness. I wish they did. We have had some very long questions and answers today.