HC Deb 01 July 1999 vol 334 c463

Motion made, and Question proposed, That, if a Statutory Instrument or Statutory Instruments relating to a Northern Ireland matter be laid before the House this day, a Minister of the Crown may, notwithstanding the practice of the House, make without notice a Motion or Motions for the approval of the said Instrument or Instruments at the sitting this day.—[Mr. Clelland.]

2.12 pm
Rev. Martin Smyth (Belfast, South)

I appreciate being given the opportunity to speak to the motion. I can understand one reason why it was tabled. However, in business questions, in response to a question about beef on the bone, the Leader of the House suggested that, because no decision had been made about that, she would make no assumptions. I was taught always to be very careful about conditional sentences, and the motion is conditional. Many years ago, a professor told me that, if a cow had a long enough tail, it would reach the moon. He stressed the word, "if".

I have had no instructions from Belfast, but I am mindful of a report on Sky Television on Tuesday evening, when Adam Boulton said that Northern Ireland questions would be asked in the House the next day, and English, Scottish and Welsh Members would participate but all the Northern Ireland Members were in the Castle buildings in Belfast. You and the House will know, Mr. Deputy Speaker, that five Northern Ireland Members were present yesterday, seeking to handle that business. However, if a statutory instrument on a Northern Ireland matter were to come before the House today, it is doubtful, because of the events in Belfast, that anyone from Northern Ireland would be present in the Chamber. In the light of the continuing discussions, I should have thought that it would be wiser to leave such business until another day.

2.13 pm
The President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons (Mrs. Margaret Beckett)

I understand the concern expressed by the hon. Gentleman. I simply say to him that this is a classic example of an enabling motion. By moving it, the Government do not commit ourselves or the House to further action but, if we do not move it, we will be unable to take action if it is requested. I understand the hon. Gentleman's point, but he will understand that, if an agreement were to be reached, the House would want to proceed in that manner, and unless we move the motion, we will not be in a position to do so.

Question put and agreed to.