§ The SpeakerI have a brief statement to make.
On Friday last, 20 February, the hon. Member for Liverpool, Toxteth (Mr. Crawshaw) submitted to me his resignation as Second Deputy Chairman of Ways and Means, and also as Deputy Speaker. I believe that the whole House would like me to express sincere gratitude to the hon. Gentleman for the distinguished and honourable way in which he has served the House as Deputy Speaker. He maintained the historic traditions of the Chair with complete impartiality. On behalf of the Deputy Speakers and myself, I wish to place on record our personal gratitude.