§ Mr. David Winnick (Walsall, North)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I understand that the Session will end tomorrow and that Black Rod will come from the other place to knock three times, as usual. I believe that that demonstrates the House's independence. It is not a 1042 pantomime or something that we simply tell visitors about, but has meaning. How can we ensure that deeply held grievances on the part of our constituents can be raised before the end of the Session? Many of my constituents—like the constituents of many of my right hon. and hon. Friends—are deeply concerned that there may shortly be another exorbitant rent increase. Now—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. I have received notice of an application under Standing Order No. 9 about rent increases. Tha hon. Gentleman cannot raise that subject as a point of order. Perhaps he will come to the point.
§ Mr. WinnickHon. Members can apply for a debate under Standing Order No. 9. I was unable to give you notice of my point, Mr. Speaker because I did not know what statements would be made. However, the Minister involved is surely under an obligation to come to the House to explain what is to be done when there is a genuine grievance at issue.
§ Mr. SpeakerAs the House knows, I do not decide who makes statements.