§ 3.30 p.m.
§ Lord StrathclydeMy Lords, it may be for the convenience of the House if I announce that it is expected that the House will be prorogued by Royal Commission at 9.30 a.m. on Thursday, 3rd November until Wednesday, 16th November.
§ Lord Boyd-CarpenterMy Lords, is my noble friend aware that Questions are tabled for the morning of 3rd November? The Questions were accepted. Is it not contrary to the normal practice of the House, when there is business—and Questions are business —for the House then to prorogue and wipe them out?
§ Lord StrathclydeMy Lords, I understand the anxiety of my noble friend and he is correct that there are currently Questions tabled for Thursday, 3rd November. However, I also understand that Starred Questions are not regarded as business and it is normal practice that when there is no business, then Starred Questions are dropped.
643 It is not just a prorogation; it is also when the House goes into Recess. Furthermore, this is a Royal Commission; it is a prerogative act and Parliament is expected to comply.