§ Mr. SpeakerI wish to make a short statement about applications under Standing Order No. 20.
On 27 February last, the Standing Order was amended to provide that a Member should make his submission to me
In an application lasting not more than three minutes".Many Members, I am glad to say, complete their applications in less than this time. In fairness to all, I intend to enforce the limit strictly in future, now that the House has had time to become accustomed to it. Members will be required to resume their seat, even if their application is not complete. The full three minutes available to Members will be recorded on the clock at the Table, but Members will be able to gain a good idea of how much time they have left by keeping an eye on the digital clocks on either side of the Chamber.