§ [MADAM SPEAKER in the Chain]
9.35 am§ The Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Tony Newton)On a point of order, Madam Speaker. As a matter of courtesy to the House, I should like to explain that, because there is a Cabinet meeting this morning, I shall not be able to be present for the whole of the debate. My hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary, Office of Public Service, will be present when I am not able to be here and I hope to come back later this morning. I hope that, in the circumstances, the House will understand and will not think me discourteous on this traditional House of Commons occasion.
§ Madam SpeakerThe House understands and appreciates the comments made by the Leader of the House.