HC Deb 02 December 1986 vol 106 c779

4.9 pm

Mr. Gordon Wilson (Dundee, East)

I wish to raise a point of order, Mr. Speaker, and I regret that I have not been able to give you notice. It relates to the two motions on Scottish affairs which would refer the subject of agriculture and fishing to the Scottish Grand Committee, sitting in Edinburgh. I was unable to give you notice, because there have been no communications whatsoever about the fact that the Scottish Grand Committee was likely to meet within five days or indeed that it would meet in Edinburgh. The subject that has been chosen—fishing and agriculture—is most important. For that reason, I take no objection to the first motion, nor do I intend to use my right to oppose it when it is called in a few moments.

As I understand it, next Monday has been chosen as the day for the Committee meeting in Edinburgh. It is customary for the parties to be given notice of any change from the normal pattern of business but, in this instance, no such notification has been received by my party from the Government or the Opposition.

I hope, Mr. Speaker, that, with your usual courtesy, you will consider upholding the rights of minorities in the House and make sure that the debate—as I have said, I have no objection to it in principle—takes place on a date for which more than five days notice has been given. If it is not within your powers to take such action, I hope that the Leader of the House will consider withdrawing notice of the later motion, which I understand is to be called later this evening.

Mr. Alex Fletcher (Edinburgh, Central)

Further to the point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

Is it on the same subject?

Mr. Fletcher

Yes, Mr. Speaker. Can you think of any reason why Opposition Members who are anxious to transfer Scottish business from the House to Edinburgh are reluctant to transfer themselves to debate that business?

Mr. Speaker

I cannot do anything about that. The hon. Member for Dundee, East (Mr. Wilson) has an option when I put the question on the motion. The best way to deal with this matter would be through the usual channels rather than through the Chair.