§ Sir Sydney Chapman (Chipping Barnet)On a point of order, Madam Speaker. I had always understood that, when the lead Minister in a Department was unable to be in his place to answer questions, it was customary, and expected by the House, that the Minister answering the first question should give an explanation—in this case concerning the absence of the Deputy Prime Minister. Do you agree with that observation? Some of us are still waiting for an explanation.
§ Madam SpeakerThe Deputy Prime Minister sent me his apologies and the reason for his absence, which is a very important mission overseas, which I accept. I assume that the right hon. Gentleman also sent his apologies to the Opposition Front Bench.
§ Mr. Archie Norman (Tunbridge Wells)indicated assent.
§ Madam SpeakerThe Opposition indicate that that is the case. Perhaps it was remiss of me not to remind the Minister who first answered to make that quite clear to the House. I apologise to the House; perhaps it was my fault for not reminding the Minister that he ought to do that. In future, if the Secretary of State has to be absent, it is always a good thing for the Minister answering to explain to the entire House so that we are all aware of it.