HC Deb 21 March 1977 vol 928 cc913-4
Mr. Tim Renton

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. If I may refer to your previous remarks, may I take it that you have some cognisance, which is denied to the rest of us, of what is in the motion? You said that when you saw the motion you would give your ruling whether it would be possible to raise matters other than defence. May we take it that you know more about the subject than we do?

Mr. Speaker

What I said was quite clear. I said "when" I saw it. I do not know any more than the rest of the House on this matter.

Mr. Goodhew rose—

Hon. Members

Sit down.

Mr. Speaker

If it is a genuine point of order, I shall hear it.

Mr. Goodhew

I hope you will agree that it is a genuine point of order, Mr. Speaker. The right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the House has given the impression that there will not be a motion before the House tomorrow. All we are trying to find out is whether, if there is not to be a motion before the House, you can or cannot guide us today or tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker

If the Liberal Party does not mind, I shall fall back on a Liberal saying. We must wait and see.