§ Mr. Brian Wilson (Cunninghame, North)On a point of order, Madam Speaker. I wonder whether you have had a request from the Secretary of State for Transport to make a statement on the new financial objectives for British Rail. As you will know, this important matter has in the past been the subject of statements to the House so that hon. Members on both sides might question the Minister concerned. On this occasion, there is to be a 23 per cent. cut in grants to British Rail, as well as the lowest level of investment since nationalisation in 1948, yet the statement of new objectives is to be buried in the written reply to a planted question from the hon. Member for Worcester (Mr. Luff). Has there been any request for a statement? Can you, Madam Speaker, protect the interests of the House?
§ Madam SpeakerAs I have informed the House—I do so on regular occasions—whether a Minister makes an announcement by way of a statement at the Dispatch Box or by means of a written reply is up to the Minister himself. The direct answer to the hon. Gentleman's question is that I have not had any request for a ministerial statement today.