EARL RUSSELLMy Lords, there is a question on the course of business about which I gave private notice to the Government. It is to ask whether it would be possible for this House to have a debate on the proposed Charter to the new British Broadcasting Corporation. We cannot in this House discuss the financial provisions, but I think there are many things connected with the constitution and the powers of that new Corporation upon which some of your Lordships might like to say something. I do not know whether the Leader of the House will put down some Motion or make a statement on some future day which would give this House an opportunity before the adjournment of discussing it?
§ THE LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL (THE EARL OF BALFOUR)My Lords, as the noble Earl is well aware time is not very plentiful at this period 1394 of the Session and in existing circumstances, but I believe in existing find an opportunity next Wednesday for the discussion to take place. If the discussion should take place may I, as a commentary on the noble Earl's question, say that I do not think we are precluded from discussing finance?