HC Deb 24 March 1976 vol 908 cc409-10
Mr. Cormack

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 situation in Rhodesia and this country's relations with that territory consequent upon Mr. Ian Smith's rejection of the British Government's latest proposals for a settlement. It would hardly be possible to exaggerate the urgency of the situation in Rhodesia and, in view of Mr. Smith's refusal to accept Her Majesty's Government's proposals outlined in this House on Monday by the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary, it is important that the House should have an early opportunity to debate the whole complex issue.

That Britain has a de jure responsibility for all the citizens of Rhodesia, black and white, is not in dispute. Each day brings fresh news of moves on the African continent and beyond which have frightening implications for the future of those citizens. In these circumstances, I believe that they have a right to expect this House to recognise their plight and to discuss their future.

That these matters are specific and important and within the competence of this House to discuss is, I believe, self-evident. That they should be discussed immediately is, I equally believe, vital.

I trust, therefore, Mr. Speaker, that you will feel able to grant this request so that we can debate these issues tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker

I am grateful to the hon. Member for Staffordshire, South-West (Mr. Cormack) for giving me notice of his intention to raise this matter this afternoon.

The hon. Gentleman asks leave to move the Adjournment of the House for the purpose of discussing a specific and important matter that he thinks should have urgent consideration, namely, the situation in Rhodesia. As the House knows, under Standing Order No. 9 I am directed to take into account the several factors set out in the Order but to give no reason for my decision.

I have given careful consideration to the representations that the hon. Gentleman has made, but I have to rule that his submission does not fall within the provisions of the Standing Order and, therefore, I cannot submit his application to the House.