HC Deb 27 November 2002 vol 395 c347 5.11 pm
Mr. Simon Thomas (Ceredigion)

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. We are shortly to discuss the Health (Wales) Bill, and the Order Paper says that the third report from the Welsh Affairs Committee and the Government's response thereto are relevant. I am sure that they are, but it is also relevant that the Bill has been subject to considerable pre-legislative scrutiny by the Welsh Grand Committee, which consists entirely of Welsh Members, whereas, in theory, members of the Welsh Affairs Committee may be from any part of the United Kingdom and not from Wales. If future Bills relating to Wales are subject to pre-legislative scrutiny by the Welsh Grand Committee, can that be referred to on the Order Paper? It is important that right hon. and hon. Members know that the Welsh Grand Committee plays an important role in the pre-legislative scrutiny of legislation that relates only to Wales.

Madam Deputy Speaker (Sylvia Heal)

The reference is usually to Select Committees, but if there has been an error on this occasion, the matter will be looked into.

Miss Anne McIntosh (Vale of York)

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. You will be aware of the need for Members of Parliament to respect each other's parliamentary boundaries. You will also be aware of "Erskine May", page 123, which says that to intimidate a Member in his parliamentary duties by threats is a contempt. Mr. Speaker has been helpful

Madam Deputy Speaker

Order. I apologise for interrupting the hon. Lady, but this kind of complaint must be issued in writing, so it would be most helpful if she could do that.

Miss McIntosh

Further to that point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

Madam Deputy Speaker

Is it a different point of order?

Miss McIntosh

May I request that following the written response to the hon. Member for Harrogate and Knaresborough (Mr. Willis), the Speaker will take into account all instances going back to 1997?

Madam Deputy Speaker

I have no doubt that the Speaker will take the necessary steps when he responds to the hon. Member.