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The following motion stood upon the Order Paper:
That the Community Service by Offenders (Scotland) Bill may be proceeded with as if it had been certified by Mr. Speaker as relating exclusively to Scotland.
§ Mr. Robert Rhodes James (Cambridge)I think that the House is entitled to some explanation of this motion, as it relates to an important Bill and to the fact that—
§ Mr. Deputy Speaker (Mr. Oscar Murton)Order. I must ask the hon. Gentleman whether he is objecting, because the Question must be dealt with forthwith.
§ Mr. Rhodes JamesSurely, Mr. Deputy Speaker, the House is entitled to some brief explanation of the Motion. [HON. MEMBERS: "It has been agreed."] It has not been agreed with me. I wish to raise a point of order with you, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Am I not entitled to ask the Government for some explanation, however brief, of why the motion is moved?
§ Mr. Deputy SpeakerI must ask the hon. Gentleman whether he is, in fact, objecting to the motion.
§ Mr. Rhodes JamesOn a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Am I allowed to object, or am I allowed to ask for some explanation, however brief, from the responsible Minister of why the motion is being moved? That is my point. In my view it is quite improper that important motions of this kind should be pushed through at this time without explanation.
§ Mr. Deputy SpeakerIt now remains to be seen whether there is any reply to the hon. Gentleman's question. If there is not, it will be presumed by the Chair that what the hon. Gentleman has said amounts to an objection. Objection taken.