HC Deb 17 November 1976 vol 919 cc1339-40

3.44 p.m.

Mr. Speaker

I must now rule on the question of privilege raised yesterday by the hon. Member for Paddington (Mr. Latham). I have given his complaint the most careful consideration in the light of rulings by my predecessors in cases of this kind. In referring to the rulings of my predecessors, I am choosing my words with care.

I am aware that Committees—and, in particular, the Select Committee of Parliamentary Privilege of 1967–68—have from time to time suggested that other rules might be applied in deciding such matters. These reports have never, however, been fully debated, still less agreed to, by the House. The House has never, therefore, changed its rules, and the only guidance on which it is proper for me to rely is that of the practice of my predecessors.

I must make it clear that my ruling will be confined to the question whether the complaint of the hon. Member for Paddington shall be given precedence over the Orders of the Day. I am in no way passing judgment on whether the complaint constitutes a breach of privilege or contempt. Others will decide that.

I have come to the conclusion that this is a matter on which the House should have the opportunity to express an opinion. I am therefore prepared to give precedence over the Orders of the Day to a motion concerning the complaint.

Before any such motion is moved, may I remind the House of our time-honoured convention that when a complaint against a Member is considered he should first be given the opportunity to be heard in his place and then withdraw. If the hon. Member for Aberdeen, South (Mr. Sproat) is present and rises, he will catch my eye. If, however, he is willing to submit himself to the judgment of the House without making any statement, I must ask him to withdraw now.

The hon. Member for Aberdeen, South (Mr. Sproat) then withdrew accordingly.