HC Deb 10 March 1993 vol 220 cc1000-24

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5)(Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.)

That the draft Electricity Generators (Rateable Values)(Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Patnick ]

The House divided: Ayes 295, Noes 58.

Division No. 181] [7.14 pm
AYES
Adley, Robert Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Coe, Sebastian
Aitken, Jonathan Colvin, Michael
Alexander, Richard Conway, Derek
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Coombs, Anthony (Wyre For'st)
Alton, David Coombs, Simon (Swindon)
Amess, David Cope, Rt Hon Sir John
Ancram, Michael Couchman, James
Arbuthnot, James Cran, James
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire)
Arnold. Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Curry, David (Skipton & Ripon)
Ashby, David Davies, Quentin (Stamford)
Aspinwall, Jack Davis, David (Boothferry)
Atkinson, David (Bour'mouth E) Day, Stephen
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Deva, Nirj Joseph
Baker, Nicholas (Dorset North) Devlin, Tim
Baldry, Tony Dorrell, Stephen
Banks, Robert (Harrogate) Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James
Bates, Michael Dover, Den
Beggs, Roy Duncan, Alan
Beith, Rt Hon A. J. Duncan-Smith, Iain
Bellingham, Henry Dunn, Bob
Bendall, Vivian Durant, Sir Anthony
Beresford, Sir Paul Dykes, Hugh
Biffen, Rt Hon John Eggar, Tim
Blackburn, Dr John G. Elletson, Harold
Body, Sir Richard Evans, David (Welwyn Hatfield)
Bonsor, Sir Nicholas Evans, Jonathan (Brecon)
Booth, Hartley Evans, Nigel (Ribble Valley)
Bowden, Andrew Evennett, David
Bowis, John Faber, David
Boyson, Rt Hon Sir Rhodes Fabricant, Michael
Brandreth, Gyles Fenner, Dame Peggy
Brazier, Julian Field, Barry (Isle of Wight)
Bright, Graham Fishburn, Dudley
Brooke, Rt Hon Peter Forman, Nigel
Brown, M. (Brigg & Cl'thorpes) Forsyth, Michael (Stirling)
Browning, Mrs. Angela Forth, Eric
Bruce, Ian (S Dorset) Fox, Sir Marcus (Shipley)
Budgen, Nicholas Freeman, Roger
Burt, Alistair French, Douglas
Butcher, John Fry, Peter
Butler, Peter Gale, Roger
Butterfill, John Gallie, Phil
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Gardiner, Sir George
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan
Carlisle, John (Luton North) Garnier, Edward
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) Gill, Christopher
Carrington, Matthew Goodlad, Rt Hon Alastair
Carttiss, Michael Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles
Cash, William Gorman, Mrs Teresa
Channon, Rt Hon Paul Gorst, John
Churchill, Mr Grant, Sir Anthony (Cambs SW)
Clappison, James Greenway, Harry (Ealing N)
Clark, Dr Michael (Rochford) Greenway, John (Ryedale)
Clarke, Rt Hon Kenneth (Ruclif) Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N)
Hague, William Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Hamilton, Rt Hon Archie (Epsom) Milligan, Stephen
Hamilton, Neil (Tatton) Mills, Iain
Hampson, Dr Keith Mitchell, Andrew (Gedling)
Hanley, Jeremy Moate, Sir Roger
Hannam, Sir John Molyneaux, Rt Hon James
Hargreaves, Andrew Monro, Sir Hector
Harris, David Moss, Malcolm
Harvey, Nick Needham, Richard
Haselhurst, Alan Neubert, Sir Michael
Hawkins, Nick Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Hawksley, Warren Nicholls, Patrick
Hayes, Jerry Nicholson, David (Taunton)
Heald, Oliver Norris, Steve
Heath, Rt Hon Sir Edward Onslow, Rt Hon Sir Cranley
Heathcoat-Amory, David Oppenheim, Phillip
Hendry, Charles Page, Richard
Heseltine, Rt Hon Michael Paice, James
Higgins, Rt Hon Sir Terence L. Patnick, Irvine
Hill, James (Southampton Test) Patten, Rt Hon John
Hogg, Rt Hon Douglas (G'tham) Pattie, Rt Hon Sir Geoffrey
Horam, John Pawsey, James
Howarth, Alan (Strat'rd-on-A) Peacock, Mrs Elizabeth
Howell, Rt Hon David (G'dford) Pickles, Eric
Hughes, Simon (Southwark) Porter, David (Waveney)
Hunt, Rt Hon David (Wirral W) Portillo, Rt Hon Michael
Hunt, Sir John (Ravensbourne) Rathbone, Tim
Hunter, Andrew Redwood, John
Hurd, Rt Hon Douglas Renton, Rt Hon Tim
Jack, Michael Richards, Rod
Jessel, Toby Riddick, Graham
Johnson Smith, Sir Geoffrey Robathan, Andrew
Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N) Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn
Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham) Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S)
Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr) Robinson, Mark (Somerton)
Jopling, Rt Hon Michael Rowe, Andrew (Mid Kent)
Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine Rumbold, Rt Hon Dame Angela
Kennedy, Charles (Ross,C&S) Ryder, Rt Hon Richard
Key, Robert Sackville, Tom
Kilfedder, Sir James Sainsbury, Rt Hon Tim
King, Rt Hon Tom Scott, Rt Hon Nicholas
Kirkhope, Timothy Shaw, David (Dover)
Kirkwood, Archy Shepherd, Richard (Aldridge)
Knapman, Roger Shersby, Michael
Knight, Mrs Angela (Erewash) Sims, Roger
Knight, Greg (Derby N) Smith, Sir Dudley (Warwick)
Knight, Dame Jill (Bir'm E'st'n) Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield)
Knox, David Speed, Sir Keith
Kynoch, George (Kincardine) Spencer, Sir Derek
Lait, Mrs Jacqui Spicer, Sir James (W Dorset)
Legg, Barry Spicer, Michael (S Worcs)
Leigh, Edward Spink, Dr Robert
Lennox-Boyd, Mark Spring, Richard
Lester, Jim (Broxtowe) Sproat, Iain
Lidington, David Squire, Robin (Hornchurch)
Lightbown, David Steel, Rt Hon Sir David
Lilley, Rt Hon Peter Steen, Anthony
Lloyd, Peter (Fareham) Stephen, Michael
Lord, Michael Stern, Michael
Luff, Peter Stewart, Allan
Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas Streeter, Gary
Lynne, Ms Liz Sumberg, David
McCrea, Rev William Sykes, John
MacGregor, Rt Hon John Tapsell, Sir Peter
MacKay, Andrew Taylor, Ian (Esher)
Maclean, David Taylor, John M. (Solihull)
McNair-Wilson, Sir Patrick Taylor, Matthew (Truro)
Madel, David Taylor, Sir Teddy (Southend, E)
Maitland, Lady Olga Thomason, Roy
Major, Rt Hon John Thompson, Sir Donald (C'er V)
Malone, Gerald Thompson, Patrick (Norwich N)
Mans, Keith Thornton, Sir Malcolm
Marlow, Tony Thurnham, Peter
Marshall, John (Hendon S) Townend, John (Bridlington)
Marshall, Sir Michael (Arundel) Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th)
Martin, David (Portsmouth S) Tracey, Richard
Mawhinney, Dr Brian Tredinnick, David
Mayhew, Rt Hon Sir Patrick Trend, Michael
Mellor, Rt Hon David Twinn, Dr Ian
Merchant, Piers Tyler, Paul
Viggers, Peter Widdecombe, Ann
Walden, George Willetts, David
Walker, A. Cecil (Belfast N) Wilshire, David
Walker, Bill (N Tayside) Winterton, Mrs Ann (Congleton)
Waller, Gary Winterton, Nicholas (Macc'f'ld)
Ward, John Wolfson, Mark
Wardle, Charles (Bexhill) Wood, Timothy
Waterson, Nigel Yeo, Tim
Watts, John Young, Sir George (Acton)
Wells, Bowen
Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John Tellers for the Ayes:
Whitney, Ray Mr. Sydney Chapman and
Whittingdale, John Mr. Robert Hughes.
NOES
Abbott, Ms Diane Hutton, John
Allen, Graham Jamieson, David
Austin-Walker, John Janner, Greville
Barnes, Harry Jones, Jon Owen (Cardiff C)
Benn, Rt Hon Tony Lewis, Terry
Byers, Stephen Loyden, Eddie
Callaghan, Jim McMaster, Gordon
Campbell-Savours, D. N. Madden, Max
Canavan, Dennis Marshall, David (Shettleston)
Cann, Jamie Martlew, Eric
Chisholm, Malcolm Meale, Alan
Clark, Dr David (South Shields) Milburn, Alan
Cohen, Harry Mitchell, Austin (Gt Grimsby)
Corbyn, Jeremy Morgan, Rhodri
Corston, Ms Jean Morley, Elliot
Davidson, Ian Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley)
Davies, Bryan (Oldham C'tral) Mullin, Chris
Davies, Ron (Caerphilly) Rooney, Terry
Denham, John Simpson, Alan
Dixon, Don Skinner, Dennis
Donohoe, Brian H. Spearing, Nigel
Enright, Derek Spellar, John
Flynn, Paul Turner, Dennis
Godman, Dr Norman A. Wigley, Dafydd
Godsiff, Roger Winnick, David
Gordon, Mildred Wise, Audrey
Graham, Thomas Wray, Jimmy
Henderson, Doug
Hinchliffe, David Tellers for the Noes:
Hood, Jimmy Mr. Bob Cryer and
Hoyle, Doug Mr. Andrew F. Bennett.
Hughes, Kevin (Doncaster N)

Question accordingly agreed to.

Mr. Deputy Speaker (Mr. Geoffrey Lofthouse)

With the leave of the House, I shall put together motions Nos. 4 to 19.

Hon. Members

Object.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.),

That the draft Glasgow Underground (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Patnick.]

The House divided:Ayes 249, Noes 49.

Division No. 182] [7.25 pm
AYES
Adley, Robert Baker, Nicholas (Dorset North)
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Baldry, Tony
Aitken, Jonathan Banks, Robert (Harrogate)
Alexander, Richard Beggs, Roy
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Beith, Rt Hon A. J.
Alton, David Bellingham, Henry
Amess, David Beresford, Sir Paul
Ancram, Michael Blackburn, Dr John G.
Arbuthnot, James Body, Sir Richard
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Bonsor, Sir Nicholas
Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Booth, Hartley
Aspinwall, Jack Bottomley, Rt Hon Virginia
Atkinson, David (Bour'mouth E) Bowis, John
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Boyson, Rt Hon Sir Rhodes
Brandreth, Gyles Hayes, Jerry
Brazier, Julian Heald, Oliver
Bright, Graham Heath, Rt Hon Sir Edward
Brooke, Rt Hon Peter Heathcoat-Amory, David
Brown, M. (Brigg & Cl'thorpes) Hendry, Charles
Browning, Mrs. Angela Heseltine, Rt Hon Michael
Bruce, Ian (S Dorset) Higgins, Rt Hon Sir Terence L.
Burt, Alistair Hogg, Rt Hon Douglas (G'tham)
Butcher, John Horam, John
Butler, Peter Howarth, Alan (Strat'rd-on-A)
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Howell, Rt Hon David (G'dford)
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) Hunt, Rt Hon David (Wirral W)
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) Hunt, Sir John (Ravensbourne)
Carrington, Matthew Hunter, Andrew
Carttiss, Michael Jack, Michael
Cash, William Jessel, Toby
Chapman, Sydney Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N)
Clappison, James Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham)
Clarke, Rt Hon Kenneth (Ruclif) Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr)
Clifton-Brown, Geoffrey Jopling, Rt Hon Michael
Coe, Sebastian Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine
Conway, Derek Kennedy, Charles (Ross,C&S)
Coombs, Anthony (Wyre For'st) Key, Robert
Coombs, Simon (Swindon) Kilfedder, Sir James
Cope, Rt Hon Sir John King, Rt Hon Tom
Cran, James Kirkwood, Archy
Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire) Knapman, Roger
Curry, David (Skipton & Ripon) Knight, Mrs Angela (Erewash)
Davies, Quentin (Stamford) Knight, Greg (Derby N)
Davis, David (Boothferry) Kynoch, George (Kincardine)
Day, Stephen Lait, Mrs Jacqui
Deva, Nirj Joseph Lawrence, Sir Ivan
Devlin, Tim Legg, Barry
Dorrell, Stephen Leigh, Edward
Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James Lennox-Boyd, Mark
Dover, Den Lester, Jim (Broxtowe)
Duncan, Alan Lidington, David
Duncan-Smith, Iain Lightbown, David
Dunn, Bob Lloyd, Peter (Fareham)
Durant, Sir Anthony Lord, Michael
Dykes, Hugh Luff, Peter
Elletson, Harold Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas
Evans, David (Welwyn Hatfield) Lynne, Ms Liz
Evans, Jonathan (Brecon) MacKay, Andrew
Evans, Nigel (Ribble Valley) Maclean, David
Evennett, David Madel, David
Faber, David Maitland, Lady Olga
Fabricant, Michael Malone, Gerald
Fenner, Dame Peggy Mans, Keith
Field, Barry (Isle of Wight) Marlow, Tony
Fishburn, Dudley Marshall, John (Hendon S)
Forman, Nigel Marshall, Sir Michael (Arundel)
Forsyth, Michael (Stirling) Martin, David (Portsmouth S)
Forth, Eric Mawhinney, Dr Brian
Fox, Sir Marcus (Shipley) Mayhew, Rt Hon Sir Patrick
Freeman, Roger Mellor, Rt Hon David
Fry, Peter Merchant, Piers
Gale, Roger Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Gallie, Phil Milligan, Stephen
Gardiner, Sir George Moate, Sir Roger
Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan Molyneaux, Rt Hon James
Garnier, Edward Monro, Sir Hector
Gill, Christopher Moss, Malcolm
Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles Needham, Richard
Gorman, Mrs Teresa Neubert, Sir Michael
Gorst, John Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Greenway, Harry (Eating N) Nicholls, Patrick
Greenway, John (Ryedale) Onslow, Rt Hon Sir Cranley
Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N) Oppenheim, Phillip
Hague, William Page, Richard
Hamilton, Rt Hon Archie (Epsom) Paice, James
Hamilton, Neil (Tatton) Patnick, Irvine
Hampson, Dr Keith Pattie, Rt Hon Sir Geoffrey
Hanley, Jeremy Pawsey, James
Hannam, Sir John Peacock, Mrs Elizabeth
Harris, David Pickles, Eric
Harvey, Nick Porter, David (Waveney)
Haselhurst, Alan Portillo, Rt Hon Michael
Hawkins, Nick Rathbone, Tim
Hawksley, Warren Redwood, John
Richards, Rod Taylor, Sir Teddy (Southend, E)
Riddick, Graham Thomason, Roy
Robathan, Andrew Thompson, Patrick (Norwich N)
Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn Thornton, Sir Malcolm
Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S) Thurnham, Peter
Robinson, Mark (Somerton) Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th)
Rowe, Andrew (Mid Kent) Tracey, Richard
Ryder, Rt Hon Richard Tredinnick, David
Sackville, Tom Trend, Michael
Sainsbury, Rt Hon Tim Twinn, Dr Ian
Shaw, David (Dover) Viggers, Peter
Shersby, Michael Walden, George
Sims, Roger Waller, Gary
Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield) Ward, John
Speed, Sir Keith Wardle, Charles (Bexhill)
Spencer, Sir Derek Waterson, Nigel
Spicer, Sir James (W Dorset) Wells, Bowen
Spicer, Michael (S Worcs) Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Spink, Dr Robert Whittingdale, John
Spring, Richard Widdecombe, Ann
Sproat, Iain Wigley, Dafydd
Squire, Robin (Hornchurch) Willetts, David
Steel, Rt Hon Sir David Wilshire, David
Steen, Anthony Winterton, Mrs Ann (Congleton)
Stephen, Michael Winterton, Nicholas (Macc'f'ld)
Stern, Michael Wolfson, Mark
Stewart, Allan Wood, Timothy
Streeter, Gary Yeo, Tim
Sykes, John
Tapsell, Sir Peter Tellers for the Ayes:
Taylor, Ian (Esher) Mr. Robert G. Hughes and
Taylor, John M. (Solihull) Mr. Andrew Mitchell.
Taylor, Matthew (Truro)
NOES
Allen, Graham Loyden, Eddie
Austin-Walker, John McAvoy, Thomas
Barnes, Harry McCartney, Ian
Callaghan, Jim McMaster, Gordon
Campbell-Savours, D. N. Madden, Max
Canavan, Dennis Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Cann, Jamie Martlew, Eric
Chisholm, Malcolm Meale, Alan
Cohen, Harry Milburn, Alan
Corbyn, Jeremy Mitchell, Austin (Gt Grimsby)
Davidson, Ian Mullin, Chris
Davies, Bryan (Oldham C'tral) Prentice, Ms Bridget (Lew'm E)
Davies, Ron (Caerphilly) Redmond, Martin
Dixon, Don Rooney, Terry
Dowd, Jim Simpson, Alan
Enright, Derek Skinner, Dennis
Flynn, Paul Spearing, Nigel
Godman, Dr Norman A. Spellar. John
Gordon, Mildred Steinberg, Gerry
Graham, Thomas Winnick, David
Griffiths, Nigel (Edinburgh S) Wise, Audrey
Hinchliffe, David Wray, Jimmy
Hood, Jimmy
Janner, Greville Tellers for the Noes:
Jowell, Tessa Mr. Bob Cryer and
Lewis, Terry Mr. Andrew F. Bennett.
Lloyd, Tony (Stretford)

Question accordingly agreed to.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.), That the draft Industrial and Freight Transport (Rateable Values) >(Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Patnick.]

The House Proceeded to a Division—

The Tellers having come to the Table—

Mr. Andrew F. Bennett (Denton and Reddish)

On a point of order, Mr. Lofthouse. As I understand it, the doors were locked in the middle of the vote, Which is not correct procedure. As soon as I found out that that had happened, I reported to you that I was not satisfied that the vote had been carried out in the correct manner.

I understand that, during that period, some hon. Members went through the doors. I realise that, in your view, it was not unfortunate that the doors were locked for only a short period, but I am sure that you will accept that it is unprecedented for the doors to be locked during the eight minutes that are made available for hon. Members to vote. I can only suggest that the vote be taken again.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I am advised that hon. Members went into the Lobbies without being counted. I have to order another Division.

The House having divided: Ayes 181, Noes 43.

Division No. 183] [at 7.47 pm
AYES
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Gale, Roger
Aitken, Jonathan Gallie, Phil
Alton, David Gardiner, Sir George
Amess, David Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan
Arbuthnot, James Garnier, Edward
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Gill, Christopher
Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles
Aspinwall, Jack Gorman, Mrs Teresa
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Gorst, John
Banks, Robert (Harrogate) Greenway, Harry (Eating N)
Beggs, Roy Greenway, John (Ryedale)
Beith, Rt Hon A. J. Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N)
Bellingham, Henry Hague, William
Beresford, Sir Paul Hamilton, Neil (Tatton)
Blackburn, Dr John G. Hanley, Jeremy
Bonsor, Sir Nicholas Harris, David
Bowis, John Harvey, Nick
Boyson, Rt Hon Sir Rhodes Haselhurst, Alan
Brandreth, Gyles Hawksley, Warren
Brazier, Julian Heald, Oliver
Bright, Graham Heath, Rt Hon Sir Edward
Brown, M. (Brigg & Cl'thorpes) Heathcoat-Amory, David
Browning, Mrs. Angela Hendry, Charles
Butcher, John Higgins, Rt Hon Sir Terence L.
Butler, Peter Horam, John
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Howarth, Alan (Strat'rd-on-A)
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) Howell, Rt Hon David (G'dford)
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) Hughes Robert G. (Harrow W)
Carrington, Matthew Hughes, Simon (Southwark)
Carttiss, Michael Hunter, Andrew
Cash, William Jack, Michael
Chapman, Sydney Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N)
Clappison, James Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham)
Coe, Sebastian Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr)
Colvin, Michael Jopling, Rt Hon Michael
Conway, Derek Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine
Coombs, Anthony (Wyre For'st) Kennedy, Charles (Ross,C&S)
Coombs, Simon (Swindon) Key, Robert
Cope, Rt Hon Sir John Kilfedder, Sir James
Cran, James King, Rt Hon Tom
Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire) Kirkwood, Archy
Davies, Quentin (Stamford) Knapman, Roger
Davis, David (Boothferry) Knight, Greg (Derby N)
Devlin, Tim Kynoch, George (Kincardine)
Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James Lait, Mrs Jacqui
Dover, Den Lawrence, Sir Ivan
Duncan, Alan Legg, Barry
Duncan-Smith, Iain Lennox-Boyd, Mark
Dykes, Hugh Lidington, David
Elletson, Harold Lightbown, David
Evans, Jonathan (Brecon) Lord, Michael
Evennett, David Luff, Peter
Faber, David Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas
Fabricant, Michael Lynne, Ms Liz
Field, Barry (Isle of Wight) MacKay, Andrew
Fishburn, Dudley Maclean, David
Fox, Sir Marcus (Shipley) Maitland, Lady Olga
Freeman, Roger Malone, Gerald
Fry, Peter Mans, Keith
Marlow, Tony Steen, Anthony
Marshall, Sir Michael (Arundel) Stephen, Michael
Martin, David (Portsmouth S) Stern, Michael
Merchant, Piers Stewart, Allan
Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute) Streeter, Gary
Milligan, Stephen Sykes, John
Moate, Sir Roger Taylor, Ian (Esher)
Molyneaux, Rt Hon James Taylor, Matthew (Truro)
Moss, Malcolm Thomason, Roy
Neubert, Sir Michael Thompson, Patrick (Norwich N)
Newton, Rt Hon Tony Thornton, Sir Malcolm
Nicholls, Patrick Thurnham, Peter
Page, Richard Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th)
Patnick, Irvine Trend, Michael
Pawsey, James Twinn, Dr Ian
Peacock, Mrs Elizabeth Viggers, Peter
Pickles, Eric Walden, George
Porter, David (Waveney) Waller, Gary
Redwood, John Wardle, Charles (Bexhill)
Richards, Rod Waterson, Nigel
Riddick, Graham Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn Whittingdale, John
Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S) Widdecombe, Ann
Robinson, Mark (Somerton) Wigley, Dafydd
Ryder, Rt Hon Richard Willetts, David
Shaw, David (Dover) Wilshire, David
Sims, Roger Winterton, Mrs Ann (Congleton)
Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield) Winterton, Nicholas (Macc'f'ld)
Speed, Sir Keith Wood, Timothy
Spencer, Sir Derek
Spicer, Sir James (W Dorset) Tellers for the Ayes:
Spink, Dr Robert Mr. Nicholas Baker and
Sproat, Iain Mr. Andrew Mitchell.
Steel, Rt Hon Sir David
NOES
Austin-Walker, John McAvoy, Thomas
Barnes, Harry McCartney, Ian
Callaghan, Jim Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Campbell-Savours, D. N. Martlew, Eric
Cann, Jamie Mitchell, Austin (Gt Grimsby)
Chisholm, Malcolm Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley)
Clwyd, Mrs Ann Mullin, Chris
Cohen, Harry Pickthall, Colin
Corbyn, Jeremy Prentice, Ms Bridget (Lew'm E)
Davidson, Ian Redmond, Martin
Dixon, Don Rooney, Terry
Dowd, Jim Simpson, Alan
Fatchett, Derek Skinner, Dennis
Flynn, Paul Spearing, Nigel
Gerrard, Neil Spellar, John
Godman, Dr Norman A. Turner, Dennis
Gordon, Mildred Winnick, David
Graham, Thomas Wise, Audrey
Griffiths, Nigel (Edinburgh S) Wray, Jimmy
Hinchliffe, David
Hood, Jimmy Tellers for the Noes:
Jamieson, David Mr. Bob Cryer and
Lewis, Terry Mr. Andrew F. Bennett.
Loyden, Eddie

Question accordingly agreed to.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c). That the draft Lochaber Power Company (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Patnick.]

The House proceeded to a Division—

Mr. Phil Gallie (Ayr)

(seated and covered): On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. May I point out that these Divisions on non-contentious matters which are of great benefit to the people and councils of Scotland are a dastardly attempt by the Labour party to rob the people of Scotland of cash which they deserve and which there is no reason to stop?

Mr. Deputy Speaker (Mr. Michael Morris)

That is not a matter for the Chair, but the hon. Gentleman may be aware that the general public will read Hansard and make their judgment accordingly.

The House having divided: Ayes 180, Noes 33.

Division No. 184] [7.59 pm
AYES
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Greenway, John (Ryedale)
Aitken, Jonathan Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N)
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Hague, William
Alton, David Hanley, Jeremy
Amess, David Harris, David
Arbuthnot, James Harvey, Nick
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Haselhurst, Alan
Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Hawksley, Warren
Aspinwall, Jack Heald, Oliver
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Heath, Rt Hon Sir Edward
Austin-Walker, John Heathcoat-Amory, David
Barnes, Harry Hendry, Charles
Beggs, Roy Higgins, Rt Hon Sir Terence L.
Beith, Rt Hon A. J. Howarth, Alan (Strat'rd-on-A)
Beresford, Sir Paul Howell, Rt Hon David (G'dford)
Blackburn, Dr John G. Hughes Robert G. (Harrow W)
Bonsor, Sir Nicholas Hunt, Sir John (Ravensbourne)
Bowis, John Hunter, Andrew
Boyson, Rt Hon Sir Rhodes Jack, Michael
Brandreth, Gyles Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N)
Brazier, Julian Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham)
Bright, Graham Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr)
Brown, M. (Brigg &Cl'thorpes) Jopling, Rt Hon Michael
Browning, Mrs. Angela Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine
Butcher, John Kennedy, Charles (Ross.C&S)
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Key, Robert
Campbell-Savours, D. N. Kilfedder, Sir James
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) King, Rt Hon Tom
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) Kirkwood, Archy
Carrington, Matthew Knapman, Roger
Carttiss, Michael Knight, Greg (Derby N)
Cash, William Kynoch, George (Kincardine)
Chapman, Sydney Lait, Mrs Jacqui
Clappison, James Lawrence, Sir Ivan
Clarke, Rt Hon Kenneth (Ruclif) Legg, Barry
Coe, Sebastian Lennox-Boyd, Mark
Colvin, Michael Lewis, Terry
Conway, Derek Lidington, David
Coombs, Anthony (Wyre For'st) Lightbown, David
Coombs, Simon (Swindon) Lord, Michael
Cope, Rt Hon Sir John Loyden, Eddie
Cran, James Luff, Peter
Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire) Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas
Davies, Quentin (Stamford) Lynne, Ms Liz
Davis, David (Boothferry) Maclean, David
Devlin, Tim Maitland, Lady Olga
Dixon, Don Malone, Gerald
Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James Mans, Keith
Dover, Den Marlow, Tony
Duncan, Alan Marshall, Sir Michael (Arundel)
Duncan-Smith, Iain Merchant, Piers
Dykes, Hugh Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Elletson, Harold Milligan, Stephen
Evans, Jonathan (Brecon) Mitchell, Andrew (Gedling)
Evennett, David Moate, Sir Roger
Faber, David Moss, Malcolm
Fabricant, Michael Neubert, Sir Michael
Fatchett, Derek Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Fenner, Dame Peggy Nicholls, Patrick
Fishburn, Dudley Page, Richard
Fox, Sir Marcus (Shipley) Patnick, Irvine
Freeman, Roger Pawsey, James
Gale, Roger Pickles, Eric
Gallic, Phil Porter, David (Waveney)
Gardiner, Sir George Redwood, John
Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan Richards, Rod
Garnier, Edward Riddick, Graham
Gill, Christopher Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn
Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S)
Gorst, John Robinson, Mark (Somerton)
Greenway, Harry (Eating N) Rooney, Terry
Ryder, Rt Hon Richard Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th)
Shaw, David (Dover) Trend, Michael
Sims, Roger Twinn, Dr Ian
Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield) Viggers, Peter
Speed, Sir Keith Walden, George
Spencer, Sir Derek Waller, Gary
Spicer, Sir James (W Dorset) Wardle, Charles (Bexhill)
Spink, Dr Robert Waterson, Nigel
Sproat, Iain Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Steel, Rt Hon Sir David Whittingdale, John
Steen, Anthony Widdecombe, Ann
Stephen, Michael Wigley, Dafydd
Stern, Michael Willetts, David
Stewart, Allan Wilshire, David
Streeter, Gary Winterton, Mrs Ann (Congleton)
Sykes, John Winterton, Nicholas (Macc'f'ld)
Taylor, Ian (Esher) Wood, Timothy
Taylor, Matthew (Truro)
Thomason, Roy Tellers for the Ayes:
Thompson, Patrick (Norwich N) Mr. Andrew MacKay and
Thurnham, Peter Mr. Nicholas Baker.
NOES
Bayley, Hugh Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Callaghan, Jim Martlew, Eric
Cann, Jamie Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley)
Chisholm, Malcolm Pickthall, Colin
Clwyd, Mrs Ann Prentice, Ms Bridget (Lew'm E)
Cohen, Harry Prescott, John
Corbyn, Jeremy Redmond, Martin
Davidson, Ian Simpson, Alan
Davies, Ron (Caerphilly) Skinner, Dennis
Dowd, Jim Spearing, Nigel
Flynn, Paul Spellar, John
Godman, Dr Norman A. Taylor, Mrs Ann (Dewsbury)
Gordon, Mildred Wise, Audrey
Graham, Thomas Wray, Jimmy
Griffiths. Nigel (Edinburgh S)
Hinchliffe, David Tellers for the Noes:
Hood, Jimmy Mr. Bob Cryer and
Jones, Jon Owen (Cardiff C) Mr. Andrew F. Bennett.
McAvoy, Thomas

Question accordingly agreed to.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c),

That the draft Mercury Communications Ltd. (Rateable Values)(Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Wood.]

The House divided: Ayes 158, Noes 41.

Division No. 185] [8.10 pm
AYES
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln)
Aitken, Jonathan Carrington, Matthew
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Cash, William
Alton, David Chapman, Sydney
Amess, David Clappison, James
Arbuthnot, James Clarke, Rt Hon Kenneth (Ruclif)
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Coe, Sebastian
Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Colvin, Michael
Aspinwall, Jack Conway, Derek
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Coombs, Anthony (Wyre For'st)
Baker, Nicholas (Dorset North) Coombs, Simon (Swindon)
Beggs, Roy Cope, Rt Hon Sir John
Beith, Rt Hon A. J. Cran, James
Beresford, Sir Paul Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire)
Blackburn, Dr John G. Davis, David (Boothferry)
Bonsor, Sir Nicholas Devlin, Tim
Bowis, John Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James
Brandreth, Gyles Dover, Den
Brazier, Julian Duncan, Alan
Bright, Graham Duncan-Smith, Iain
Brown, M. (Brigg &Cl'thorpes) Elletson, Harold
Browning, Mrs. Angela Evans, Jonathan (Brecon)
Butcher, John Faber, David
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Fabricant, Michael
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) Fenner, Dame Peggy
Fishburn, Dudley Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Fox, Sir Marcus (Shipley) Milligan, Stephen
Freeman, Roger Mitchell, Andrew (Gedling)
Gale, Roger Moate, Sir Roger
Gallie, Phil Morley, Elliot
Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan Moss, Malcolm
Garnier, Edward Neubert, Sir Michael
Gill, Christopher Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles Nicholls, Patrick
Gorst, John Page, Richard
Greenway, Harry (Ealing N) Pawsey, James
Greenway, John (Ryedale) Pickles, Eric
Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N) Porter, David (Waveney)
Hague, William Redwood, John
Hanley, Jeremy Richards, Rod
Harris, David Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn
Harvey, Nick Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S)
Haselhurst, Alan Robinson, Mark (Somerton)
Hawksley, Warren Ryder, Rt Hon Richard
Heald, Oliver Shaw, David (Dover)
Heath, Rt Hon Sir Edward Sims, Roger
Heathcoat-Amory, David Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield)
Hendry, Charles Spencer, Sir Derek
Howarth, Alan (Strat'rd-on-A) Spink, Dr Robert
Hughes Robert G. (Harrow W) Sproat, Iain
Hughes, Simon (Southwark) Steel, Rt Hon Sir David
Hunt, Sir John (Ravensbourne) Steen, Anthony
Hunter, Andrew Stephen, Michael
Jack, Michael Stern, Michael
Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N) Stewart, Allan
Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham) Streeter, Gary
Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr) Sykes, John
Jopling, Rt Hon Michael Taylor, Ian (Esher)
Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine Taylor, Matthew (Truro)
Kennedy, Charles (Ross,C&S) Thomason, Roy
Kilfedder, Sir James Thompson, Patrick (Norwich N)
Kirkwood, Archy Thurnham, Peter
Knapman, Roger Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th)
Knight, Greg (Derby N) Trend, Michael
Kynoch, George (Kincardine) Twinn, Dr Ian
Lait, Mrs Jacqui Tyler, Paul
Lawrence, Sir Ivan Viggers, Peter
Legg, Barry Walden, George
Lennox-Boyd, Mark Waller, Gary
Lidington, David Wardle, Charles (Bexhill)
Lightbown, David Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Lord, Michael Whittingdale, John
Luff, Peter Widdecombe, Ann
Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas Wigley, Dafydd
Lynne, Ms Liz Wi Herts, David
Maclean, David Winterton, Nicholas (Macc'f'ld)
Maitland, Lady Olga Wood, Timothy
Malone, Gerald
Mans, Keith Tellers for the Ayes:
Marlow, Tony Mr. Irvine Patrick and
Merchant, Piers Mr. Andrew MacKay.
NOES
Barnes, Harry Graham, Thomas
Bayley, Hugh Griffiths, Nigel (Edinburgh S)
Bennett, Andrew F. Hall, Mike
Callaghan, Jim Hinchliffe, David
Campbell-Savours, D. N. Hood, Jimmy
Cann, Jamie Loyden, Eddie
Chisholm, Malcolm McAvoy, Thomas
Clwyd, Mrs Ann McWilliam, John
Cohen, Harry Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Corbyn, Jeremy Martlew, Eric
Cryer, Bob Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley)
Davidson, Ian Pickthall, Colin
Davies, Rt Hon Denzil (Llanelli) Prentice, Ms Bridget (Lew'm E)
Dixon, Don Redmond, Martin
Dowd, Jim Rooney, Terry
Fatchett, Derek Simpson, Alan
Flynn, Paul Spearing, Nigel
Godman, Dr Norman A. Spellar, John
Gordon, Mildred Taylor, Mrs Ann (Dewsbury)
Winnick, David Tellers for the Noes:
Wise, Audrey Mr. Dennis Skinner and
Wray, Jimmy Mr. Terry Lewis.

Question accordingly agreed to.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5)(Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c), That the draft Mines and Quarries (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Wood.]

The House divided: Ayes 148, Noes 42.

Division No. 186] [8.20 pm
AYES
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Harvey, Nick
Aitken, Jonathan Hawksley, Warren
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Heald, Oliver
Alton, David Heathcoat-Amory, David
Amess, David Hendry, Charles
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Howarth, Alan (Strat'rd-on-A)
Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Hughes Robert G. (Harrow W)
Aspinwall, Jack Hughes, Simon (Southwark)
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Hunter, Andrew
Baker, Nicholas (Dorset North) Jack, Michael
Beggs, Roy Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N)
Beith, Rt Hon A. J. Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham)
Beresford, Sir Paul Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr)
Blackburn, Dr John G. Jopling, Rt Hon Michael
Bowis, John Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine
Brandreth, Gyles Kennedy, Charles (Ross.C&S)
Brazier, Julian Kilfedder, Sir James
Bright, Graham Kirkwood, Archy
Brown, M. (Brigg & Cl'thorpes) Knapman, Roger
Browning, Mrs. Angela Knight, Greg (Derby N)
Butcher, John Kynoch, George (Kincardine)
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Lait, Mrs Jacqui
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) Legg, Barry
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) Lennox-Boyd, Mark
Carrington, Matthew Lidington, David
Carttiss, Michael Lightbown, David
Cash, William Lord, Michael
Chapman, Sydney Luff, Peter
Clappison, James Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas
Clarke, Rt Hon Kenneth (Ruclif) Lynne, Ms Liz
Coe, Sebastian MacKay, Andrew
Colvin, Michael Maclean, David
Coombs, Simon (Swindon) Maitland, Lady Olga
Cope, Rt Hon Sir John Malone, Gerald
Cran, James Marlow, Tony
Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire) Merchant, Piers
Davis, David (Boothferry) Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Devlin, Tim Mitchell, Andrew (Gedling)
Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James Moate, Sir Roger
Dover, Den Neubert, Sir Michael
Duncan, Alan Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Duncan-Smith, Iain Nicholls, Patrick
Elletson, Harold Page, Richard
Evans, Jonathan (Brecon) Pawsey, James
Fabricant, Michael Pickles, Eric
Fenner, Dame Peggy Porter, David (Waveney)
Fishburn, Dudley Redwood, John
Freeman, Roger Richards, Rod
Fry, Peter Riddick, Graham
Gale, Roger Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn
Gallie, Phil Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S)
Gardiner, Sir George Robinson, Mark (Somerton)
Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan Ryder, Rt Hon Richard
Garnier, Edward Shaw, David (Dover)
Gill, Christopher Sims, Roger
Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield)
Gorst, John Spencer, Sir Derek
Greenway, Harry (Eating N) Spink, Dr Robert
Greenway, John (Ryedale) Sproat, Iain
Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N) Steel, Rt Hon Sir David
Hague, William Steen, Anthony
Hanley, Jeremy Stephen, Michael
Harris, David Stern, Michael
Stewart, Allan Waller, Gary
Streeter, Gary Wardle, Charles (Bexhill)
Sykes, John Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Taylor, Ian (Esher) Whittingdale, John
Taylor, Matthew (Truro) Widdecombe, Ann
Thomason, Roy Wigley, Dafydd
Thurnham, Peter Willetts, David
Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th) Winterton, Nicholas (Macc'f'ld)
Trend, Michael Wood, Timothy
Twinn, Dr Ian
Viggers, Peter Tellers for the Ayes:
Walden, George Mr. Irvine Patnick and
Walker, A. Cecil (Belfast N) Mr. James Arbuthnot.
NOES
Barnes, Harry Hinchliffe, David
Bayley, Hugh Hood, Jimmy
Bennett, Andrew F. Jones, Jon Owen (Cardiff C)
Callaghan, Jim Loyden, Eddie
Campbell-Savours, D. N. McAvoy, Thomas
Cann, Jamie Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Chisholm, Malcolm Meale, Alan
Clark, Dr David (South Shields) Mitchell, Austin (Gf Grimsby)
Clwyd, Mrs Ann Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley)
Cohen, Harry Pickthall, Colin
Corbyn, Jeremy Prentice, Ms Bridget (Lew'm E)
Cryer, Bob Redmond, Martin
Davidson, Ian Rogers, Allan
Davies, Ron (Caerphilly) Rooney, Terry
Dixon, Don Spearing, Nigel
Dowd, Jim Spellar, John
Fatchett, Derek Taylor, Mrs Ann (Dewsbury)
Flynn, Paul Wise, Audrey
Godman, Dr Norman A. Wray, Jimmy
Gordon, Mildred
Graham, Thomas Tellers for the Noes:
Griffiths, Nigel (Edinburgh S) Mr. Terry Lewis and
Hall, Mike Mr. Dennis Skinner.

Question accordingly agreed to.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5)(Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c), That the draft Oil Related and Petrochemical Plants (Rateable Value (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Wood.]

The House proceeded to a Division

Mr. Raymond S. Robertson (Aberdeen, South)

(seated and covered): On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Is it in order for English Labour Members to seek to defeat this order, thus ensuring that business rates in the oil industry in my constituency would be raised by 85 per cent.?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

It is open to any hon. Member to object to any motion.

Later

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I have asked the Clerk to inquire what the delay is in both Lobbies. If an hon. Member is purposely sitting there, it is verging on contempt of the House.

The House divided: Ayes 147, Noes 41.

Division No. 187] [8.36 pm
AYES
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Bayley, Hugh
Aitken, Jonathan Beggs, Roy
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Bennett, Andrew F.
Alton, David Beresford, Sir Paul
Amess, David Blackburn, Dr John G.
Arbuthnot, James Bonsor, Sir Nicholas
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Bowis, John
Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv) Brandreth, Gyles
Atkinson, Peter (Hexham) Brazier, Julian
Bright, Graham Lennox-Boyd, Mark
Brown, M. (Brigg & Cl'thorpes) Lidington, David
Browning, Mrs. Angela Lightbown, David
Butcher, John Lord, Michael
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) Luff, Peter
Campbell-Savours, D. N. Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas
Carlile, Alexander (Montgomry) Lynne, Ms Liz
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) MacKay, Andrew
Carrington, Matthew Maclean, David
Carttiss, Michael Maitland, Lady Olga
Cash, William Malone, Gerald
Chapman, Sydney Marlow, Tony
Clappison, James Merchant, Piers
Coombs, Simon (Swindon) Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Cope, Rt Hon Sir John Mitchell, Andrew (Gedling)
Cran, James Moate, Sir Roger
Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire) Molyneaux, Rt Hon James
Davis, David (Boothferry) Neubert, Sir Michael
Devlin, Tim Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Dorrell, Stephen Nicholls, Patrick
Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James Page, Richard
Dover, Den Patnick, Irvine
Duncan, Alan Pawsey, James
Duncan-Smith, Iain Pickles, Eric
Dunn, Bob Porter, David (Waveney)
Elletson, Harold Purchase, Ken
Evans, Jonathan (Brecon) Redwood, John
Fabricant, Michael Richards, Rod
Fatchett, Derek Riddick, Graham
Fenner, Dame Peggy Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn
Fishburn, Dudley Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S)
Freeman, Roger Robinson, Mark (Somerton)
Gale, Roger Rooney, Terry
Gallie, Phil Ryder, Rt Hon Richard
Gardiner, Sir George Shaw, David (Dover)
Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan Sims, Roger
Gill, Christopher Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield)
Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles Spencer, Sir Derek
Gorst, John Spink, Dr Robert
Graham, Thomas Sproat, Iain
Greenway, Harry (Ealing N) Steel, Rt Hon Sir David
Greenway, John (Ryedale) Steen, Anthony
Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N) Stephen, Michael
Hague, William Stern, Michael
Hanley, Jeremy Stewart, Allan
Harris, David Sykes, John
Harvey, Nick Taylor, Ian (Esher)
Hawksley, Warren Thomason, Roy
Heald, Oliver Thurnham, Peter
Heathcoat-Amory, David Townsend, Cyril D. (Bexl'yh'th)
Higgins, Rt Hon Sir Terence L. Trend, Michael
Hood, Jimmy Twinn, Dr Ian
Hunt, Sir John (Ravensbourne) Viggers, Peter
Hunter, Andrew Walden, George
Jack, Michael Waller, Gary
Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N) Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham) Whittingdale, John
Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr) Widdecombe, Ann
Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine Wigley, Dafydd
Kennedy, Charles (Ross, C&S) Willetts, David
Kilfedder, Sir James Wood, Timothy
Kirkwood, Archy Wray, Jimmy
Knapman, Roger
Knight, Greg (Derby N) Tellers for the Ayes:
Kynoch, George (Kincardine) Mr. Nicholas Baker and
Lait, Mrs Jacqui Mr. Robert G. Hughes.
Legg, Barry
NOES
Barnes, Harry Davies, Rt Hon Denzil (Llanelli)
Boateng, Paul Denham, John
Callaghan, Jim Dixon, Don
Cann, Jamie Dowd, Jim
Chisholm, Malcolm Flynn, Paul
Clark, Dr David (South Shields) Godman, Dr Norman A.
Clwyd, Mrs Ann Gordon, Mildred
Cohen, Harry Graham, Thomas
Corbyn, Jeremy Griffiths, Nigel (Edinburgh S)
Cryer, Bob Gunnell, John
Davidson, Ian Hinchliffe, David
Hood, Jimmy Rogers, Allan
Howarth, George (Knowsley N) Spearing, Nigel
Jackson, Helen (Shef'ld, H) Spellar, John
Jones, Jon Owen (Cardiff C) Taylor, Mrs Ann (Dewsbury)
Kilfoyle, Peter Turner, Dennis
Loyden, Eddie Winnick, David
McAvoy, Thomas Wray, Jimmy
Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Meale, Alan Tellers for the Noes:
Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley) Mr. Terry Lewis and
Prentice, Ms Bridget (Lew'm E) Mr. Dennis Skinner.
Redmond. Martin

Question accordingly agreed to.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Before I call the next motion, I draw the attention of the House to the fact that any obstruction of the Division Lobby is not acceptable to the Chair.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.), That the draft Scottish Hydro-Electric pic. (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Wood.]

The House divided: Ayes 135, Noes 37.

Division No. 189] [9.10 pm
AYES
Tellers for the Ayes:
Mr. Bob Cryer and
Mr. Harry Barnes.
NOES
Ainsworth, Peter (East Surrey) Arnold, Sir Thomas (Hazel Grv)
Alison, Rt Hon Michael (Selby) Atkinson, Peter (Hexham)
Alton, David Baker, Nicholas (Dorset North)
Amess, David Bayley, Hugh
Arbuthnot, James Beggs, Roy
Arnold, Jacques (Gravesham) Beith, Rt Hon A. J.
Bennett, Andrew F. Kynoch, George (Kincardine)
Beresford, Sir Paul Lait, Mrs Jacqui
Blackburn, Dr John G. Legg, Barry
Bonsor, Sir Nicholas Lennox-Boyd, Mark
Brandreth, Gyles Lewis, Terry
Brazier, Julian Lidington, David
Bright, Graham Lightbown, David
Brown, M. (Brigg & Cl'thorpes) Lord, Michael
Browning, Mrs. Angela Loyden, Eddie
Burt, Alistair Luff, Peter
Butcher, John Lyell, Rt Hon Sir Nicholas
Callaghan, Jim Lynne, Ms Liz
Campbell, Menzies (Fife NE) McAvoy, Thomas
Campbell-Savours, D. N. MacKay, Andrew
Cann, Jamie Maclean, David
Carlisle, Kenneth (Lincoln) Malone, Gerald
Carrington, Matthew Marshall, Sir Michael (Arundel)
Carttiss, Michael Martin, Michael J. (Springburn)
Cash, William Meale, Alan
Clappison, James Merchant, Piers
Clark, Dr David (South Shields) Michie, Mrs Ray (Argyll Bute)
Clwyd, Mrs Ann Mitchell, Andrew (Gedling)
Coombs, Simon (Swindon) Mitchell, Austin (Gt Grimsby)
Cope, Rt Hon Sir John Moate, Sir Roger
Cran, James Molyneaux, Rt Hon James
Currie, Mrs Edwina (S D'by'ire) Morris, Estelle (B'ham Yardley)
Davidson, Ian Moss, Malcolm
Davies, Quentin (Stamford) Mullin, Chris
Davis, David (Boothferry) Neubert, Sir Michael
Devlin, Tim Newton, Rt Hon Tony
Dixon, Don Nicholls, Patrick
Douglas-Hamilton, Lord James Page, Richard
Dover, Den Parry, Robert
Duncan, Alan Pattie, Rt Hon Sir Geoffrey
Duncan-Smith, Iain Pawsey, James
Dunn, Bob Pike, Peter L.
Elletson, Harold Porter, David (Waveney)
Evans, Jonathan (Brecon) Redwood, John
Fabricant, Michael Richards, Rod
Fenner, Dame Peggy Riddick, Graham
Fishburn, Dudley Roberts, Rt Hon Sir Wyn
Flynn, Paul Robertson, Raymond (Ab'd'n S)
Gale, Roger Robinson, Mark (Somerton)
Gallie, Phil Rooney, Terry
Gardiner, Sir George Ross, William (E Londonderry)
Garel-Jones, Rt Hon Tristan Rowe, Andrew (Mid Kent)
Gill, Christopher Ryder, Rt Hon Richard
Godman, Dr Norman A. Sainsbury, Rt Hon Tim
Goodson-Wickes, Dr Charles Shaw, David (Dover)
Graham, Thomas Sims, Roger
Greenway, Harry (Ealing N) Skinner, Dennis
Greenway, John (Ryedale) Smith, Tim (Beaconsfield)
Griffiths, Peter (Portsmouth, N) Speed, Sir Keith
Gunnell, John Spencer, Sir Derek
Hague, William Spink, Dr Robert
Hanley, Jeremy Sproat, Iain
Harris, David Steel, Rt Hon Sir David
Harvey, Nick Steen, Anthony
Haselhurst, Alan Stephen, Michael
Hawksley, Warren Stern, Michael
Heald, Oliver Stewart, Allan
Heathcoat-Amory, David Streeter, Gary
Higgins, Rt Hon Sir Terence L. Sykes, John
Hood, Jimmy Taylor, Mrs Ann (Dewsbury)
Hughes Robert G. (Harrow W) Taylor, Ian (Esher)
Hunt, Sir John (Ravensbourne) Thomason, Roy
Hunter, Andrew Thurnham, Peter
Illsley, Eric Trend, Michael
Jack, Michael Twinn, Dr Ian
Jones, Gwilym (Cardiff N) Tyler, Paul
Jones, Nigel (Cheltenham) Viggers, Peter
Jones, Robert B. (W Hertfdshr) Walden, George
Kellett-Bowman, Dame Elaine Waller, Gary
Kennedy, Charles (Ross,C&S) Wheeler, Rt Hon Sir John
Kilfedder, Sir James Whittingdale, John
Kirkwood, Archy Widdecombe, Ann
Knapman, Roger Wigley, Dafydd
Knight, Greg (Derby N) Willetts, David
Wood, Timothy Tellers for the Noes:
Wray, Jimmy Mr. Sydney Chapman and
Mr. Irvine Patnick.

Question accordingly agreed to.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Before I call the next motion, may I say that I propose to invoke Standing Order No. 39. For those hon. Members who are not familiar with the Standing Order, after the lapse of two minutes on each motion I shall call the Ayes to stand and then to sit down and then the Noes to stand and then to sit down. I shall then make a judgment as to whether there is a clear majority one way or the other.

Mr. Bennett

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I wonder whether you might reconsider your ruling. As I understand it, that procedure has normally been used in the middle of a Bill. I cannot recall an occasion when it has been used on statutory instruments. The history of statutory instruments is of considerable importance as they all used to be taken on the Floor of the House. Only with the permission of the House are they referred to a Committee upstairs on the basis that, when they return, it will be possible for the House to express a clear view; in other words, for all hon. Members to record precisely their vote.

May I suggest that if you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, and the Government wish to proceed along this line, it is possible that my hon. Friends will decide that they do not want any orders to go upstairs to Committee. As I am sure you will appreciate—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. The decision is a matter entirely for the Chair. I have not consulted anyone. It is my view that it is now appropriate to invoke the Standing Order.

Mr. D. N. Campbell-Savours (Workington)

Further to that point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. The wording of Standing Order No. 39 is: Mr. Speaker or the chairman may, after the lapse of two minutes, if in his opinion the division is unnecessarily claimed". You have said, Mr. Deputy Speaker, that you propose to exercise your discretion. However, surely there is a responsibility upon you to tell the House why you believe a Division is being unnecessarily claimed. I have a case to put to you that—[Interruption.] I am quoting from Standing Order No. 39, which says: if in his opinion the division is unnecessarily claimed I put it to you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, that these Divisions are being necessarily claimed. Some of us have voted in different Lobbies on different orders.

May I draw your attention, Mr. Deputy Speaker, to the fact that I voted against the draft Electricity Generators (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I accept the hon. Gentleman's word. However, I made it clear that my decision would be made after a lapse of two minutes; I did not say what that decision would be. I said that if, in my opinion, it was necessary to invoke Standing Order No. 39, I would do so.

Mr. Bob Cryer (Bradford, South)

As you know, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I am the Chairman of both the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments and the Select Committee on Statutory Instruments. We have made the complaint that in 1992 the Government produced more statutory instruments than have ever before been produced in the history of Parliament. It would be a very serious departure from parliamentary scrutiny if the torrent of statutory instruments produced by the Government were not then subject to a vote on the Floor of the House. That would mean that the legislative sausage machine that the Government are using would become even worse.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I have already made it clear that the House will not be denied a vote; the House will get its vote.

Notice being taken that strangers were present, MR. DEPUTY SPEAKER, pursuant to Standing Order No. 143 (Withdrawal of strangers from House), put forthwith the Question, That strangers do withdraw:—

The House divided: Aves 0. Noes 170.

Question accordingly negatived.

Mr. Alan Meale (Mansfield)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Will you reconsider yet again your decision to invoke Standing Order No. 39? As I recall, the last time that that was invoked was in 1979— [Interruption.]

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. The hon. Gentleman should be heard.

Mr. Meale

On that occasion, 13 votes had already taken place. Surely we have not yet reached that stage in these proceedings.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I entered the House considerably earlier than 1979; and if the hon. Gentleman looks back he will find other precedents. In any case, we have already had 10 Divisions.

Dr. Norman A. Godman (Greenock and Port Glasgow)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Is it your intention to invoke standing order No. 39 in respect of motion No. 19, which concerns the controversial issue of the common organisation of the market in potatoes, because I am keen to register a vote agin it?

Several Hon. Members

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. One at a time.

Mr. Bennett

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I do not want to pursue the question of your ruling, but I would like you to explain how you will implement your ruling, to protect the rights—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I am quite happy to do that when the time comes.

Mr. Bennett

Further to that point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. Mr. Skinner.

Mr. Dennis Skinner (Bolsover)

On the few occasions that Standing Order No. 39 has been invoked since 1970—although that has happened recently—I have been present. The occupant of the Chair invoked the Standing Order only when there were seven, 10 or a dozen hon. Members in the Chamber. On no occasion were 30 or 40 hon. Members voting—not while I have been here. On the last occasion that I recall, when we were up most of the night, only a handful of hon. Members were voting. It was relatively easy for the occupant of the Chair to see the numbers involved clearly. To do it on the basis of—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I regret that the hon. Gentleman's memory is not perhaps as good as it used to be. Mr. Harry Barnes.

Mr. Skinner

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. In the 1986–87 Session, voting in the last three Divisions before the Standing Order was invoked was 167 to 32, 166 to 31, and 166 to 31.

Mr. Skinner

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. That is the same scale—

Mr. Skinner

You are wrong.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. Mr. Barnes.

Mr. Harry Barnes (Derbyshire, North-East)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker—[Interruption.]

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I ask hon. Members to contain themselves. Points of order from any part the House are important.

Mr. Barnes

On a point of order. Mr. Deputy Speaker. I seek your further ruling in respect of the point of order raised by my hon. Friend the Member for Greenock and Port Glasgow (Dr. Godman) in respect of motion No. 19. Initially, that motion was considered by European Standing Committee A and, in a Division, the voting was four votes to two.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I have already told the House that I will consider each motion on its merits. We have reached motion No. 11; we are nowhere near motion No. 19.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. You said that you would consider each order on its merits. As an individual Member of Parliament, I ask you to provide a procedure whereby my name is recorded as being in favour of the next order. "Erskine May" states: Neither names nor numbers of a minority are now announced, though the numbers appear in the Journal. That would be insufficient to indicate that I voted in favour of the order about the nuclear power industry. I appeal to you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, to allow a Division so that Hansard can show that I voted in favour of the valuation order as it relates to the Scottish nuclear industry.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I hear the hon. Gentleman's appeal, but I regret to say that I cannot meet it.

Mr. Bennett

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. May I ask you to consider how to ensure that there is sufficient time for hon. Members to get into the Chamber to express their views—as is their right—and that thal is made clear on the Annunciator? Each order deals with a different subject, and an hon. Member may well decide not to vote on, for instance, the Scottish rating and valuation motions but to vote on the social security motions, or the motion relating to potatoes. You have a duty to protect the rights of Back Benchers, who rely on the Annunciator to know what is going on in the Chamber.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman. However, 15 minutes have elapsed since I announced the position, and I assume that most—indeed, all—hon. Members now know what is going on.

I shall now put the Question on motion No. 11. The Question is—

Mr. Campbell-Savours

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I hope that it is a new point of order.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

It really—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. Is this a new point of order?

Mr. Campbell-Savours

No, it is not.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

In that case, I shall put the Question on motion No. 11.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.).

That the draft Scottish Nuclear Limited (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Arbuthnot] As many as are of that opinion say Aye—[HoN. MEMBERS: "No."] Order. In my opinion, the Division has been called unnecessarily. I therefore call on hon. Members supporting the motion to rise in their places. Will those against the motion do the same?

Mr. Bennett

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. There is no point of order for me.

Mr. Bennett

Hon. Members are still coming in.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Will those who are voting No please stand? They have to be counted. Will hon. Members please stand still?

Mr. Meale

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. A major difficulty has occurred because of your ruling on this Division. We on this side of the House clearly heard the words from your lips, "Clear the Lobbies." That being the case, hon. Members on this side of the House must be allowed to vote through the Lobby.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I gave adequate warning. The difficulty is that the House is not used to this procedure.

Mr. Meale

Further to that point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. We should like you to reconsider your ruling. The reason is that, when you uttered the words, "Clear the Lobbies", hon. Members left the Chamber and went into the Lobby, following which the Division bells sounded. Those hon. Members remained in the Lobby and missed the vote. Some of them went to other parts of the House. We ask for a further ruling.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Hon. Members make their own decisions. I made very clear what procedure I was to invoke. That procedure is laid down in the Standing Orders of the House.

Mr. Don Dixon (Jarrow)

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. When I have finished one ruling I shall be happy to take another point of order. [Interruption.] Order. Let me announce the result of that Division. In my opinion, the Ayes have it.

Mr. Dixon

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. On that occasion, you definitely said, "Clear the Lobbies." The Division bells rang and it went on the Annunciator. Then my hon. Friends went into the Lobby. May I ask you how many voted Aye? No one took any account of those who stood in favour of the motion, although the Clerks counted those who voted against it. How can you have a proper Division when there are no Tellers?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

The Clerk's responsibility is to count the minority, which he did. On this occasion it was the Noes. It may be the Ayes on a future occasion. The Clerk undertook that responsibility and reported the result to me. [Interruption.] Order. In my judgment, the Noes were so far below the Ayes that the motion was accepted. [Interruption.] I do not need to count. It was quite clear that there was a majority in favour of that motion.

Mr. Nigel Spearing (Newham, South)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I think that all of us in the Chamber, particularly those of us who have held chairs in various capacities, understand the difficulties that you face today—as well as the difficulties that some hon. Members might face in the next three days, difficulties that could have been relieved. Am I right in thinking that the procedure under the Standing Order is that the request to stand takes place on the second call after two minutes? Will you please confirm that? May I suggest that the difficulties that we have just experienced were caused by the fact that many of my hon. Friends—and nearly myself —did not understand that the moment to stand, if there was to be standing, was then and not earlier?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I think that the hon. Gentleman was in the Chamber when I explained that I proposed to invoke Standing Order No. 39. I spelt out the implications, and the record will show that I did. The fact that hon. Members are perhaps not aware of how Standing Order No. 39 works is not a matter for the Chair. I ask hon. Members to pay proper attention to announcements from the Chair.

Several Hon. Members

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

For the sake of clarification, and to ensure that there is no further confusion or misunderstanding, Standing Order No. 39, for those who —[Interruption.] Order. Will the hon. Member for Denton and Reddish (Mr. Bennett) do me the courtesy of listening? Standing Order No. 39 states: Mr. Speaker or the chairman may, after the lapse of two minutes, if in his opinion the division is unnecessarily claimed, take the vote of the House, or committee, by calling upon the Members who support, and who challenge his decision, successively to rise in their places; and he shall thereupon, as he thinks fit, either declare the determination of the House or committee, or name tellers for a division.

Mrs. Ann Taylor (Dewsbury)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. May I ask for clarification? I was working in my office when the Division bells rang. The Annunciator clearly stated that there was a Division in the House, and the bells were ringing for everyone to hear. There was no way that any hon. Members working in their offices could know that they had to be in the House immediately to stand up at the appropriate time.

That meant that hon. Members who were working in their offices when the Division was called thought that they had the usual eight minutes in which to come to the Chamber. I seek your guidance on how hon. Members in that situation were supposed to know that the Division was being called on the Floor of the House in an unusual way.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

The hon. Lady will be aware that I gave full warning 15 minutes before calling the Division.

Several hon. Members

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. How can I give a proper answer to the hon. Lady if other hon. Members rise?

I gave full warning 15 minutes prior to calling the Division what the procedure would be and when I would invoke it. Hon. Members are required to keep abreast of what is happening here. They must use their judgment about whether to leave the Chamber to work. My judgment is to give due warning, which I did to the best of my ability.

Mr. Meale

Further to that point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. May I crave your indulgence for a second or two? Is it part of the procedure in such cases, when Standing Order No. 39 is invoked, to say, "Clear the Lobbies" and to call a Division?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Yes, it is. If I say, "Clear the Lobbies", that is part of the required procedure. I must follow the procedure of the House as laid down by the Standing Orders. I have no room for discretion in that matter. My discretion concerns whether I announce the Tellers.

Mr. Derek Fatchett (Leeds, Central)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I seek clarification on how you weighed the votes for the Division. I think that the responsibility of the Chair in these circumstances is to protect the minority from those who try to shout us down. The point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker, is this: those of us who voted No were asked to stand in our positions here. You then said that you thought that the Noes were a minority. May I say how impressed I am by your clairvoyance and perception, because nobody stood on the other side. How do you know—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I did ask the Ayes—those who supported the motion—to stand, and all the hon. Members whom I can see on the Government side of the Chamber stood, and some Opposition Members, too. Then I called the Noes. After a delay, the Noes stood and were counted by the Clerk—[HON. MEMBERS: "How many?"]. It was clear where the majority lay. [HON. MEMBERS: "How many?"] Thirty-four.

Question agreed to.

Resolved, That the draft Scottish Nuclear Limited (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved. Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5) (Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.),

That the draft Scottish Power plc. (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Arbuthnot.]

The House proceeded to a Division—

Mr. Dixon

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker —[HON. MEMBERS: "Where is the hat?"] On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. [HON. MEMBERS: "Where is the hat?"' On a point of—[HON. MEMBERS: "This is during a Division."] I rose on a point of order before the Division was called—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."]

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I regret to say that I did not hear the hon. Gentleman's point of order before I called the motion—[Interruption.]—but I shall take the point of order now, if the hon. Gentleman wishes to raise it and it follows the procedure of the House. The Question has been put, so I should be grateful if the hon. Member would follow the procedures of the House and wear—[Interruption.]

Mr. Dixon

rose

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I am happy to give guidance if the hon. Gentleman will follow the procedure of the House.

Mr. Eric Illsley (Barnsley, Central)

(seated and covered): On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. You will be aware that the Procedure Committee recently recommended that, when there was an alteration during a Division—[HON. MEMBERS: "What? An altercation?"]—

when there was an alteration to procedure during a Division, a message should be shown on the Annunciator. I am referring to what happens when a Division is extended.

In those circumstances, it was recommended that some message should be displayed on the Annunciator to show hon. Members such as my hon. Friend the Member for Dewsbury (Mrs. Taylor) who are coming to the Chamber from outside the precincts of the Palace of Westminster that they have extra time in which to vote. My suggestion is that perhaps it would be better for the House to be suspended for sufficient time to allow for hon. Members in and about the Palace of Westminster—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. The hon. Gentleman will be aware that that procedure is primarily for security alerts and other events of that nature.

Motion No. 12. As many as are of the opinion say Aye. to the contrary No. Clear the Lobbies.

Mr. Meale

(seated and covered): On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. For the benefit of hon. Members in the Chamber, will you tell us: is this a Division? Are Members going into the Division Lobbies or not?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

"Clear the Lobbies" means clear the Lobbies of strangers. Hon. Members have had it explained to them several times that, if they wish to take part in the Division—which is entirely voluntary—they should remain in their places. After two minutes, if I believe it appropriate, I shall either call the Tellers, in which case there will be a normal Division, or I shall ask Members to rise in their places.

Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER, having said that it appeared to him that the Division had been unnecessarily claimed, accordingly called upon the Members who supported and who challenged his decision successively to rise in their places, and he declared that the Ayes had it, forty-two Members only who challenged his decision having stood up.

Question accordingly agreed to.

Mr. Dixon

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Would you explain the procedure under Standing Order No. 39 because there seems to be a lot of confusion, not among Opposition Members, but among Conservative Members? How will you tell whether there is a consistent vote if the vote for the Noes is not declared at the end of each vote? May we be given the number of those voting against at the end of each vote, and can that be put on the Annunciator so that people outside know that there is a Division and how many are voting against the motion?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

The House is entitled to know that 42 hon. Members voted against the motion.

Mr. Martin Redmond (Don Valley)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I ask for clarification. I am sure that it would be helpful if the Clerks stood to count hon. Members. They remain seated, so they must have difficulty in counting. I understand that to challenge the count made by the Clerks would be to challenge your decision, Mr. Deputy Speaker and obviously I do not want to do that. However, while the Clerks remain seated, there is a possibility that they will miscount.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

The House has experienced Clerks, and I think that we can rely on their ability to count.

Mr. Thomas Graham (Renfrew, West and Inverclyde)

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker—[Interruption.] I shall put my point of order if hon. Members stop baying. It is difficult for folk like me who have a hearing aid to hear everything in the Chamber when there is such noise. Hon. Members who, like myself, suffer from that disability will be helped by other hon. Members keeping quiet when they raise a point of order. I was moving so fast that my wife could not have counted me. How you could you count me, Mr. Deputy Speaker?

Motion made, and Question put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 101(5)(Standing Committees on Statutory Instruments, &c.),

That the draft Water Undertakings (Rateable Values) (Scotland) Order 1993, which was laid before this House on 15th February, be approved.—[Mr. Arbuthnot.] The House proceeded to a Division—

Mr. Campbell-Savours

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. Will you confirm—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. Where is the hat?

Mr. Skinner

He does not need a hat.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. Where is the proper hat?

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Will you confirm, Mr. Deputy Speaker—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. The House insists on hats. There is one at either end of the Chamber.

Mr. Skinner

His head has only got to be covered.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. The hat must be on.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Where does it say that 1 must wear a hat? Which page?

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. I ask the hon. Gentleman to wear a hat.

Mr. Skinner

He does not have to.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Mr. Deputy Speaker, will you confirm—

Mr. Deputy Speaker

I call upon those supporting the motion to rise in their places. I call upon those opposing the motion to rise in their places.

Mr. Bennett

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

Order. The hon. Gentleman must sit down.

Question agreed to.

Mr. Bennett

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. As I understood the rules, an hon. Member has to be covered. I understood that the recommendation from the Select Committee on Procedure was to provide the House with two hats but, because many hon. Members felt that it was not dignified to wear a hat like that, an hon. Member was entitled simply to have his head covered. I understand that it was custom and practice for an hon. Member to put an Order Paper on his head. If you can direct us to where it says that an hon. Member has to wear one of the hats as opposed to covering his head, I shall be grateful.

Mrs. Ann Taylor

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. There seems to be great concern in the Chamber about the way in which proceedings are developing. Would it be appropriate for Madam Speaker to be asked to come to the Chamber so that we might have proper rulings on these matters?

Mr. Redmond

On a further point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. You will be aware that Madam Speaker's predecessor allowed the practice of an hon. Member covering his head with an Order Paper. Has there been a change of practice?

Mr. Michael Connarty (Falkirk, East)

On a further point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. My point of order is much more simple. In the year that I have been in the House, I have not heard three consecutive points of order go unanswered. It seems strange that we have a new procedure in the House. I have heard Madam Speaker say that she will answer one point of order before another is taken. We now have three points of order outstanding without an answer.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

My understanding is that the Select Committee on Procedure said that a hat should be worn. As the hon. Member for Workington (Mr. Campbell-Savours) was provided with a hat, courtesy to the Chair suggests that he should have worn it.