HL Deb 23 October 2000 vol 618 cc10-1

3.1 p.m.

Lord Carter

My Lords, it may be for the convenience of the House to know that there may be a short interruption in business at some time during the afternoon or evening. In the event that the other place elects a Speaker today, this House will adjourn and then reassemble to hear the Royal Commission.

I am not yet in a position to give an estimate of when that may happen since the precise timings will depend upon the unfolding of events in another place. If possible, the Royal Commission will take place in the dinner hour. If, however, that does not turn out to be possible, the House will adjourn and then reassemble specifically for the purpose of hearing the Royal Commission read. Once the Royal Commission has been read, the House will resume its main business of the day, which is the Police (Northern Ireland) Bill.

Lord Elton

My Lords, what will happen if the decision is not reached until the business of this House has been completed?

Lord Carter

My Lords, we shall have the Royal Commission tomorrow.