§ Mr. Dennis Skinner (Bolsover)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. You will recall that yesterday the Leader of the House, in his usual manner, made a business statement. It was very comprehensive and he outlined all the matters to be debated next week. Many of us raised other issues that we thought should be on the agenda, which is normal practice. This morning, we hear that the Government intend to change one of their major pieces of legislation passed in the past two or three years—the poll tax legislation.
In view of all the speculation and the Prime Minister's private secretary briefing the media about the massive change in primary legislation on the poll tax, I suggest that it is incumbent on a Minister to come to the House to tell us what changes are to take place and whether the Leader of the House will arrange business in a different manner for next week. It is high time that the House was properly informed about these changes. The Government have a penchant for going to the press and running to the television studios, telling the world about possible changes, but they do not come here to tell the House of Commons.
Some time today, you should be informed, Mr. Speaker, about the impending poll tax changes. The poll tax legislation is detested by the great majority of the population. It is high time that we dealt with the matter properly and not outside this building.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. I also heard this on the radio this morning. I must tell the hon. Gentleman that I am one of those who was not briefed on this matter. I am sure that what the hon. Gentleman has said will have been heard by the Treasurer of Her Majesty's Household, who is part of the usual channels.