§ The Lord Chancellor (Lord Mackay of Clashfern)My Lords, before the commencement of business, I take the opportunity to inform the House that, with the approval of Her Majesty The Queen, I have accepted an invitation to attend a European Speakers Conference in Strasbourg, France, between 20th and 22nd February. Accordingly, I trust that the House will agree to grant me leave of absence for Thursday, 20th and Friday 21st February.