Education Bill (Hansard, 28 January 1997)

HC Deb 28 January 1997 vol 289 cc157-261 157

§ As amended (in the Standing Committee), further considered.

3.43 pm

§ Mr. Peter Kilfoyle (Liverpool, Walton)
On a point of order, Madam Speaker. The Government have had the opportunity overnight to consider the enormity of the loss last night of new clause 3 and its impact on the rest of the Bill, and the Clerks of the House have had a chance to ponder the ramifications of that loss. I seek your guidance again today on the effect that the loss of the new clause will have on clause 6 and paragraph 22 of schedule 9, both of which refer specifically to new section 259A of the Education Act 1996, which was struck out by the House last night. Other clauses, including clause 5, refer to the enlargement of premises, and one might reasonably argue that they, too, are impacted upon by the removal of new section 259A.

§ Madam Speaker
I note what the hon. Gentleman has said, but I am sure that he will understand that it is not for the Chair to take any action in the matter—that is entirely for the Government, whose legislation it is. The hon. Gentleman may well have heard that, during Prime Minister's Question Time, the matter was raised with the Prime Minister, who left the impression with the House that he believed that it was now being discussed with the usual channels. Certainly, it is not a matter for me at this stage. No doubt we shall hear more about it later.

§ Mr. David Shaw (Dover)
On a point of order, Madam Speaker. Last night there seems to have been some confusion about the vote. There have been reports on the media today that the vote was other than as recorded in Hansard. Last night, I voted according to my principles and my conscience. Can you tell me why the Leader of the Opposition was not in the same Lobby as I was?

§ Madam Speaker
That is barely a point of order. No arguments. We have dealt with that. It is over and done with. Let us move on to the Bill, and take positive action with new clause 10.