HL Deb 15 November 1977 vol 387 cc509-10
The CHAIRMAN of COMMITTEES (Lord Aberdare)

My Lords, I beg to move the first Motion standing in my name on the Order Paper.

Moved, That, in accordance with Standing Order 72, a Select Committee for Privileges be appointed; and that, as proposed by the Committee of Selection, the following Lords, together with the Chairman of Committees and any four Lords of Appeal, be named of the Committee:

—(Lord Aberdare.)

Lord BLYTON

My Lords, I should like to ask the Chairman of Committees a question. In the 14 years I have been here, we have had a repetition of the same names every time: they never alter. Have we to be a freemason or to kiss the feet of the Establishment before getting on to these important Committees?

Lord ABERDARE

My Lords, with great respect, the names do change. We have a system whereby a certain number of members have to retire from each committee every Session. They do change, and the Committee of Selection, whose recommendation I am proposing in this particular Motion, have considered the members of the Committee and made the recommendation that is on the Order Paper.

Lord BLYTON

My Lords, is the Chairman of Committees aware that some of those whose names I have seen on the Committees are very conspicuous by their absence in this House and yet they are still on these Committees?

Lord ABERDARE

No, I am afraid I could not accept that, my Lords.

On Question, Motion agreed to.