HC Deb 22 October 1984 vol 65 c463

5.5 pm

Mr. Dennis Skinner (Bolsover)

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate that on the first day back after an 11-week absence there have been two statements and a private notice question on important matters that had to take precedence over business. I would think that we could have had several more statements. The fact that we did not might have been influenced by you, Mr. Speaker, or by the Government. Some of us were fully expecting a statement on the way in which the pound is gradually sinking into the sewer as a result of the Government's failure to handle their economic responsibilities. There has also been the serious development of the Government doing a U-turn on rescuing banks such as Dunlop International——

Mr. Speaker

Order. What is the point of order for me? The hon. Gentleman knows that I am not responsible for any statements that may be made. Will he please come to the point of order for me to answer?

Mr. Skinner

Bearing in mind those serious developments, including the sinking pound, and as the Leader of the House is present, may I ask whether it would be possible for a statement to be made on a change of business, if necessary, or whatever other arrangements are needed, or whether you would assist in ensuring that statements on all those matters are made tomorrow?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Gentleman has been here long enough to know that I am not responsible for suggesting statements to the Government. The Leader of the House will have heard the hon. Gentleman.

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