Northern Ireland Assembly
4:00 pm
Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice)
On a point of order, Mr speaker is in charge of proceedings of the House of Commons in..." class="glossary">Deputy Speaker. Can you explain why only those who support the motion have been called to speak in the debate? Surely it is a basic tenet of debate that the voice of dissent should also be heard. It is also a basic requirement of Standing Order 17(5) that due regard should be had to the balance of opinion on a matter. Can we have some explanation as to why only those who wish to support the motion have been given the opportunity to speak?