HC Deb 19 December 1990 vol 183 c315

5.6 pm

Mr. Tam Dalyell (Linlithgow)

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. One hour and 36 minutes after Question Time, it is a bit difficult to raise a point of order arising out of questions, but that is what Mr. Speaker asked me to do.

On Scottish questions, we reached question 20. Question 21 concerned provision in Scottish hospitals in relation to casualties who may return from the Gulf. That may be happening in a horrendous way before our next Scottish Question Time. I simply wanted to ask whether the Scottish Office has inquired about the possibility of a statement being made, or of a question being answered orally.

Madam Deputy Speaker (Miss Betty Boothroyd)

I understand that Mr. Speaker suggested to the hon. Gentleman that he raise his point of order after the statements. I can, however, answer his point by saying that Mr. Speaker has not been informed that a statement is to be made.

Mr. Ray Powell (Ogmore)

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. Can you advise me? Between now and the rising of the House there will be little time or opportunity for hon. Members to ask about the advice that should be given to traders throughout the country about Sunday opening. Last Thursday, I asked the Leader of the House—who, I am glad to see, is present now—to arrange a debate this week so that the matter could be highlighted and traders might not infringe the law.

In Prime Minister's questions yesterday, the Prime Minister might have been expected to repeat what his predecessor had often said about the law. Can you tell me, Madam Deputy Speaker, what course I should pursue to ensure that a debate is held so that all retailers may be informed of the law and how they should act?

Madam Deputy Speaker

That is barely a point of order. I think that the hon Gentleman is trying to hijack the next debate. I am sure that he is a wise enough parliamentarian to know that he may well have an opportunity to raise his point during the Christmas Adjournment motion debate. As he has pointed out, the Leader of the House is present in the Chamber.

Mr. Frank Haynes (Ashfield)

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. On the front page of today's Evening Standard—right on the front page—is a picture of the right hon. Member for Finchley (Mrs. Thatcher), who has apparently moved into new accommodation not far from the House of Commons. We are supposed to believe in security in this place—and out there. But the name of the street where the house is situated and the number on a pillar outside the door are clearly shown in the picture. Can something be done about security? We all have to take responsibility for it. The media must also act responsibly. They have failed the nation.

Madam Deputy Speaker

Both the Chair and the House take very seriously what the hon. Gentleman has said. Though it is not a point of order, I hope that his comments have been noted in all quarters of the House.