§ Lord DenhamMy Lords, it may be for the convenience of the House if I announce that, subject to the progress of business, the House will rise for the Christmas Recess on Wednesday, 22nd December and return on Monday, 17th January 1983. The House will sit at 11 a.m. on 22nd December.
I should also say that dinner will be available this evening at the usual time. Subject to the progress of business this afternoon, the Committee on the Health and Social Services and Social Security Adjudications Bill may be adjourned at approximately 7 o'clock for a short period.
§ Lord Davies of LeekMy Lords, may I ask the noble Lord a question on Government business? The Health and Social Services and Social Security Adjudications Bill is such a great Bill that I hope we are not trying to rush this vital legislation through Parliament just before the Christmas Recess. Can the Minister help the House and say that we shall have time to think in depth about it?
§ Lord DenhamMy Lords, time is always at a premium in your Lordship's House, particularly before Recesses. I draw the noble Lord's attention to the fact that we have achieved a rather large share of the legislation of the Session starting in this House. It would help that situation to continue in other Sessions if we are as expeditions as possible. Having said that, the House must not be rushed, but I ask noble Lords—and I thank the noble Lord for giving me the opportunity to say this—not to spend too much time on the less important parts of the Bill.