§ Mr. Dennis Skinner (Bolsover)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. You will recall, Mr. Speaker, that last Thursday several exchanges took place between the Opposition Front Bench and the Prime Minister and others about the need for a statement to clear up the business about the three medium-term bridging loans that Argentina has negotiated with the IMF. My right hon. Friend the Leader of the Opposition made it clear that he wished the Prime Minister to make a statement that would clear up the matter and would give her the opportunity to defend and explain her position. He wished a statement to be made as soon as possible.
I have not seen anything that suggests that a statement will be made today. The Leader of the House is present and I wish to know whether it is possible for the right hon. Gentleman to say when the statement is likely to be made. Many of us feel extremely strongly about British taxpayers' money—tax relief is being handed over to the banks that are making the loans—being given to Argentina so that it can continue with its rearmament programme.
§ Mr. SpeakerI have received no request for a statement to be made.