HC Deb 11 June 1979 vol 968 cc28-9
40. Mr. Thomas Cox

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what plans he has to introduce a question day for London.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

I have no such proposals at present.

Mr. Cox

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that is a most disappointing reply? Is he further aware that the allocation of time in this House for London, although London sends the largest number of Members, has been an utter disgrace under successive Governments? Before he makes a final decision, will he seek the views of the London Members and also the views of industry and commerce in London, which, I can assure him, urgently believe that there is ground for the allocation of a specific question day for London?

Mr. English

And for the East Midlands.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

I am afraid that I cannot agree with the hon. Gentleman. If London were to be treated in a special way, all other regions of the country would be making the same claim. The tradition of this House has long been that Question Time is arranged on a subject basis and not a topographical one.