§ Mr. Nigel Spearing (Newham, South)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I apologise for not giving you notice of this point of order, but I believe that there is a rule that, unless such matters are raised at the first available opportunity, it may not be possible to raise them at all.
It is, I think, a well-known principle that no moneys can be expended by Her Majesty's Government other than those that lie within their power by Act of Parliament or a Vote in the House of Commons. You will remember, Mr. Speaker, that my hon. Friend the Member for Wakefield (Mr. Hinchliffe), during questions to the Prime Minister, referred to expenditure of £100 million in relation to opt-out hospitals. In replying, the Prime Minister did not dissent from my hon. Friend's proposition; indeed, she mentioned that the hospitals would not become self-governing until the necessary Act had been given Royal Assent.
Can you, Mr. Speaker, give me some guidance—either now or at a later date—on the prima facie case that some money, although perhaps not £100 million, has been spent for that purpose before Royal Assent had been given to a Bill that is still being considered by the House?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Gentleman knows that I am not responsible for answers that are given by Ministers, and it is not for me to look into such matters. If an incorrect statement has been made, however, I am sure that there are other ways of putting things right.