HC Deb 21 November 1989 vol 162 cc2-3

Motion made, and Question proposed, That the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis do take care that during the Session of Parliament the passages through the streets leading to this House be kept free and open and that no obstruction be permitted to hinder the passage of Members to and from this House, and that no disorder be allowed in Westminster Hall, or in the passages leading to this House, during the Sitting of Parliament, and that there be no annoyance therein or thereabouts, and that the Serjeant at Arms attending this House do communicate this Order to the Commissioner aforesaid.

2.33 pm
Mr. Bob Cryer (Bradford, South)

I understand that, as with the other Sessional Orders, this one is debatable. It is the right of hon. Members to exercise that function in the debates of the House, whether there are television cameras here or not. I am concerned. I fully support the motion that hon. Members should have access to the House, and agree that any obstructions to such access should be removed, but I can recall not very long ago when some members of the citizenry—students—wanted to come to the House and express a point of view. It is important that the House considers extending these rights to the citizens and taxpayers who pay for this institution, so that they may have access to this place, and we may know that when they come to make representations, the police will help them as well, and not cause an obstruction, which is what occurred with the students' demonstration.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Gentleman is quite correct; the motions are debatable.

Question put and agreed to.

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  1. VOTES AND PROCEEDINGS 41 words
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  2. OUTLAWRIES 19 words
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  3. JOURNAL 84 words