§ Mr. Barry Field (Isle of Wight)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. The conduct of the affairs of the House is under your direct responsibility. I believe that I am correct in saying that it is your view, both in private and in public, that the way in which we conduct our affairs has improved in recent years. May I therefore direct your attention to the relevant Hansard reports of 1971 when the then Isle of Wight Bill was passing through the House? I ask you also, to examine the proceedings and events late last night and early this morning.
After the prorogation of Parliament, our proceedings will come under the scrutiny of the lens of the television camera. We shall do ourselves no service if we continue to conduct our affairs as we did last night. I say this, Mr. Speaker, not from the barrel of sour grapes but in view of the way in which the International Westminster Bank Bill was treated last night. Britain is supposed to be the financial centre of the world, but I believe that we made ourselves a thorough laughing stock last night. I hope that you will address these matters during your day.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe House knows that opposed private business is a matter for the Chairman of Ways and Means. I am aware of what went on in the Chamber last night and I shall look into the matter. I do not know whether there is anything that I can do personally, but I share the hon. Gentleman's concern about the Bills which the House failed to debate.