§ Mr. Graham Allen (Nottingham, North)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. You will know better than anyone in the House that it is one of Parliament's sacred duties to defend the freedoms that are enjoyed—freedom of speech, of association and of religion—including the freedom to be tried before being detained. You will be aware that on Monday an order will be discussed, probably after 10.30 pm, that pertains to that last precious freedom. Unless the procedures of the House are adjusted—and it is within the Government's power to do so—that order will be debated next Monday but will not be voted on until Wednesday. It will be subject to a deferred vote.
Many of us feel that deferred votes are important, particularly after the way in which the business of the House was abused last year. None the less, there must be certain items that the House feels are of the utmost importance and deserve a vote immediately after the debate. Will you use your usual channels to find out whether appropriate means of reaching a decision on this matter can be found and a vote taken immediately after the debate on Monday?
§ Mr. SpeakerI have no powers in these matters, but the hon. Gentleman will know who does. He should take the matter up with the appropriate Minister.