HC Deb 07 December 1987 vol 124 c27 3.51 pm
Mr. John Home Robertson (East Lothian)

On a different point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Andrew Faulds (Warley, East)

In that case, sit down.

Mr. Speaker

Order. I decide who is called to speak.

Mr. Home Robertson

I think that my hon. Friend the Member for Warley, East (Mr. Faulds), wants your job, Mr. Speaker.

I want to refer you, Mr. Speaker, to the Housing (Scotland) Bill, which was published by the Government on Friday. It is an important measure that will dismantle the public sector housing service in Scotland. According to the index to the Bill, it has 67 clauses and 10 schedules. However, look as I might, I could find only nine schedules in my copy. The incompetence of the Scottish Office is legendary. It could not run a sweetie shop. I do not expect you to comment on that, Mr. Speaker, but can you please give an assurance that the House will not be required to consider on Second Reading a Bill that has not been properly published by the Government? Am I right in thinking that the Government will have to have it reprinted and allow a further two clear weeks—during the time that the House is sitting—before we consider the Bill on Second Reading?

Mr. Speaker

Order. I understand that there was some defective printing in the Bill and that it is being reprinted and will be re-issued tomorrow.