HC Deb 12 February 1998 vol 306 cc565-6

4.9 pm

Mr. Mike Hall (Weaver Vale)

On a point of order, Madam Speaker. During the statement on the resignation of the Director-General of the Office of the National Lottery, Oflot, I advised the House that he had taken trips in a jet around the United States of America before the lottery was awarded to Camelot. I should have said that it was after the lottery was awarded, but before it was up and running. I am grateful for this opportunity to put the record straight.

Madam Speaker

Thank you.

Dr. Liam Fox (Woodspring)

On a point of order, Madam Speaker. This is a matter of some concern to the House. Given the exchanges today about the release of information to the House, will you make it clear—in line with your previous statements on the subject—that if information on the contents of the millennium dome is released to the public before it is released to the House, that would be contemptuous of this House and against the spirit of your previous rulings?

Madam Speaker

The entire House knows that I always want major decisions and such information to be given to the House first. I am glad to have been given this public opportunity to make it known that, whether it is the millennium dome or any other policy statement from the Government, it comes to the House first before going to the media.