§ Dr. David Owen (Plymouth, Devonport)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I do not wish to raise again the questions put to you by the right hon. Member for Chesterfield (Mr. Benn) in his application for an emergency debate, but the right hon. Gentleman mentioned a fact which had only recently come to light. The NUM was expecting to have a meeting with the Coal Board tomorrow, but that meeting has been cancelled.
In the light of that development, would not it be appropriate, particularly as the Leader of the House is here, for a statement to be made to the House, or for the business of the House to be rearranged, so that we may discuss the matter?
Am I right in thinking that as no motion has been tabled for the Opposition day on Wednesday, it would be possible, within the rules of order, for the Leader of the Opposition, if he so wished, to use that half day for such a debate?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe right hon. Gentleman knows that I am not responsible for statements that may or may not be made, and I am also not responsible for the choice of subject on Opposition days.