§ Mr. Dennis Skinner (Bolsover)I should like to have your observations, Mr. Deputy Speaker, on the fact that there is a growing practice of this Government, in particular, using the system of operating the written question and written reply in response to sensitive matters.
This morning on the tape I noticed that a sensitive matter about the pay of Members of Parliament had been answered in written form, which prevents Members of Parliament having the opportunity to question the Minister. Not so long ago there was a demonstration in the House about another occasion when a Minister from the Department of the Environment had to be challenged and had to deal with the matter in another way. At a time when civil servants are being told that they can have no more than 7 per cent., yet Members of Parliament can receive as much as 18.7 per cent., this sensitive matter should be one when the Minister comes to the House of Commons and answers questions on it. That is happening at a time when the Government are trying to thrust through a 6 per cent. to 7 per cent. Incomes policy.
§ Mr. Deputy Speaker (Mr. Ernest Armstrong)I take note of what the hon. Gentleman says. It is not a matter for the Chair, but I shall raise it with Mr. Speaker.