§ Mr. RowlandsOn a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. May I seek your advice? You, Mr. Deputy Speaker, and certainly Mr. Speaker, will know that there was widespread flooding in many parts of South Wales. We have been making representations concerning financial support for local authorities and individuals. We hear from press reports that the EEC is to give some assistance to individuals, but the House has been kept totally in the dark about the assistance and support that the Government will give to individuals and local authorities.
There were questions on the Order Paper for answer today relating to the 28 floods in South Wales, but they were not reached. I believe that it is within the power of the Minister to seek permission to answer them after 3.30 pm. Has the Secretary of State for Wales requested such permission?
§ Mr. Ioan EvansFurther to that point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Last week the Opposition were expecting a statement from the Secretary of State on the Welsh floods. I asked the Leader of the House whether he would undertake to convey to the Secretary of State our expectation of such a statement, since thousands of families have been affected. Since the Leader of the House and the Secretary of State are both here, may we have such a statement?
Mr. Deputy SpeakerIt is not a matter for the Chair whether the Government make a statement. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman's comment will have been noted.