§ Read a Second time
§ Mr. MillerOn a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. As you will appreciate, the intricacies of procedure are especially difficult for new Members, and, as we have seen, even for Members of longer standing. I have sat here at length today, following correspondence on the Occupational Pensions Bill which I was hoping to move this morning——
§ Mr. Deputy SpeakerOrder. I am afraid that the Chair is not responsible for any correspondence, discussions or communications with the Government. The Chair is here merely to rule on the debates in the Chamber. I therefore cannot accept the point of order.
§ Mr. CorbynOn a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. This is a fairly new Parliament, but already I see old habits recurring.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Corporate Affairs (Mr. Neil Hamilton)How shocking.
§ Mr. CorbynYes, it is shocking. Hon. Members have made great efforts to introduce legislation under the ten-minute rule. I understand the procedure, but are you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, able to discuss with Madam Speaker the question of the allocation of time so that serious debates can be held on a range of issues raised by Back Benchers, to give them an opportunity to introduce legislation affecting large numbers of people—for instance, my Bill, which would affect 9 million pensioners?
§ Mr. Deputy SpeakerThat is a matter to be taken up with the Leader of the House rather than with Madam Speaker.
Bill committed to a Committee of the whole House.—[Mr. Cohen.]
§ Mr. Deputy SpeakerCommittee, what day?
§ Mr. Deputy SpeakerThis is a most unusual procedure. Are there any objections?
§ Committee upon Friday 15 January.