§ The Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. John Biffen)With permission, Mr. Speaker, I should like to make a short business statement.
Following discussions through the usual channels, the draft Regional Transport (Levy) Order 1985, which was not moved yesterday, will now be taken on Tuesday 12 February.
That day's business will now be as follows: Transport Bill, Second Reading, followed by related money and Ways and Means resolutions
Motion on the draft Regional Transport (Levy) Order 1985.
A motion relating to the Housing Benefits (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulations 1984 will now follow proceedings on the Representation of the People Bill on Wednesday 13 February.
§ Mr. Simon Hughes (Southwark and Bermondsey)I thank the Leader of the House for accommodating the housing benefit regulations debate, which is on a prayer tabled by my right hon. and hon. Friends. Wednesday will be the proper time not only for that debate but for the first day of the two-day debate on the Representation of the People Bill. I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. Nigel Spearing (Newham, South)Will the Leader of the House pay attention to the fact that the change of business was necessitated by virtually all yesterday being taken up with discussion on Ministers sailing close to or across the margins of the law? Will he draw it to the attention of the Prime Minister, who has views on and expertise in the matter, particularly so that she might draw it to the attention of her next-door neighbour at No. 11, the Chancellor of the Exchequer?
§ Mr. BiffenWhile I could not for one moment accept the premise of that request, I shall see that the request is passed on.
§ Sir John Farr (Harborough)Will my right hon. Friend make it clear that two days will still be devoted next week to the Representation of the People Bill?
§ Mr. BiffenYes, Sir.