§ Q6. Mr. Tim Renton asked the Prime Minister whether he has received any representations from Members of Parliament concerning a revision of the doctrine of collective Cabinet responsibility.
§ The Prime MinisterA number of hon. Members have tabled Questions to me 1848 on collective responsibility, but I have received no recent written representations on the subject.
§ Mr. RentonWill the right hon. Gentleman use this opportunity to tell the House what importance he attaches to Ministers continuing to support measures that have been outlined in the Gracious Speech? Whether one likes its contents or not, if that speech is to be regarded as a legislative programme, surely it needs to have the continuing weight of the whole Government behind it?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, I would generally accept that proposition.
Mr. HellerDoes my right hon. Friend recall that I have personally made representations on this matter in the Chamber on a number of occasions? Is it not time that we updated the whole process to recognise that the Cabinet is not entirely in agreement on every issue? [Interruption.] Should we not recognise that no Cabinet is entirely in agreement on every issue? Does my right hon. Friend agree that it is time we brought this into practice, instead of perpetuating a myth that started in the last century?
§ The Prime MinisterI thought the complaint was that I had updated the doctrine.
§ Mr. RidleyNext time the right hon. Gentleman publishes a Queen's Speech, will he consider allowing a minority report to be published?
§ The Prime MinisterThere always is. It takes the form of an amendment by the Opposition.