HC Deb 16 July 2003 vol 409 cc401-2

Motion made, and Question put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118(6) (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Special Grant Report (No. 124) (HC 777) on the Delayed Discharges Grant for 2003–04, dated 16th June 2003, a copy of which was laid before this House on 16th June, be approved.—[Charlotte Atkins.]

Mr. Speaker

I think the Ayes have it.

Hon. Members

No.

Division deferred till Wednesday 10 September, pursuant to Orders [28 June 2001 and 29 October 2002].

Mr. Eric Forth (Bromley and Chislehurst)

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. You must have been almost embarrassed to have announced that to the House. Is not this the ultimate illustration of the absurdity of deferred Divisions? Here we have a motion before the House which we have objected to, and you have now told us that Members of the House will have to wait until 10 September to write down their vote on a ballot paper, in a Division Lobby, conveniently immediately after Prime Minister's questions, and that is when the matter will be resolved. History will record that this was the ultimate absurdity of deferred Divisions.

Mr. Speaker

The right hon. Gentleman is aware of the Standing Orders of the House.

Motion made, and Question put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118(6)(Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation),

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  1. LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE (ENGLAND) 224 words