HC Deb 11 June 1979 vol 968 c25
41. Mr. English

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what proposals he has for consulting Back Benchers about their rights.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

As Leader of the House, I shall keep in mind the interests of all hon. Members, and in particular I will do all I can to see that the rights of Back Benchers are respected.

Mr. English

In thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him whether, while he is waiting for a new Boyle report, he is prepared to implement the last one? He may recollect that the last one was published before phase 1 of the last incomes policy began, and that we are the only group of people in the United Kingdom who have not been accorded our just rights.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

The hon. Member has made his point extremely well. I wish that he had made it more successfully to his right hon. Friend the Member for Huyton (Sir H. Wilson), who had responsibility at that time.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

When does my right hon. Friend expect to receive the Boyle report?

Mr. St. John-Stevas

I am hopeful that it will be received very soon, and in this case my hopes are matched by my expectations.