HC Deb 22 October 1985 vol 84 c175 5.13 pm
Mr. Tony Marlow (Northampton, North)

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. The Bill deals with an amendment to the European Communities Act 1972. It also deals with a surrender of parliamentary sovereignty over a certain amount of taxpayers' money, some of which will be eventually controlled by the EEC Commission. So that we know in advance, can you tell us, Mr. Speaker, what will happen in the other place if the Bill is passed after today's debate? Can you say what the other place will be able to do, what debates it can have, what amendments it can consider and what action can be taken?

Mr. Speaker

I am not responsible for what goes on in the other place. I can only advise and help the hon. Gentleman as to what may go on here.

Mr. Marlow

Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. Can you say whether it is a money Bill?

Mr. Speaker

In accordance with long-standing practice, I take that into consideration when and if the Bill is given a Third Reading and not before. My decision will be published in the Votes and Proceedings.

Mr. Teddy Taylor (Southend, East)

Further to that point of order, Mr. Speaker. If you make that announcement tomorrow, is it true that there will be only six sitting days for the other place to go through the full process of considering this fundamental constitutional Bill? If the other place does not manage to complete consideration those days, is the Bill dead?

Mr. Speaker

I am not in any way concerned with what goes on in another place. I cannot help the hon. Gentleman.