HC Deb 21 February 1980 vol 979 c683

4.32 p.m.

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Norman St. John-Stevas)

I beg to move, That Mr. Philip Holland and Mr. John Roper have leave of absence to present on behalf of this House a gift of a clock to the National Parliament of Solomon Islands and gifts of gavel sets to the Houses of Assembly of Tuvalu and Kiribati.

The House—[Interruption.]

Mr. Speaker

Order. I have never before received such distinguished help. I am deeply grateful.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

I wish that the occasion of providing the distinguished help had been equally distinguished.

The House will recall that on 30 January it approved the presentation of independence gifts to Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Kiribati. The motion today, if approved, will give leave of absence to a small delegation to present the gifts on our behalf. The House may wish to know that the composition of the delegation has been arranged with you, Mr. Speaker, and that it will be accompanied by Mr. Willcox, a Clerk of this House.

Question put and agreed to.