Mr Graham Brady (Altrincham & Sale West, Conservative)

On a point of order, Mr. Griffiths. At this morning's sitting it is likely that, once again, we will fall into the trap whereby important and controversial clauses to which a number of amendments have been tabled might not be reached because of the knife that is due to fall at 1 o'clock. I want to make it known that, through the usual channels, Conservative members have sought a Programming Sub-Committee this morning. Although the Government frequently say that they are willing to offer more time, they are, again, showing no flexibility over the guillotine, which we believe to be the origin of the problem. It is regrettable that we have not reached an agreement about it. We shall do our best to ensure that the important clauses are dealt with this morning, but it is important to record the fact that there has not been agreement on the way in which we should proceed.

Mr Win Griffiths (Bridgend, Labour)

That is not a point of order. It is should be dealt with through the usual channels.

Mr John Heppell (Government Whip (technically a Lords Commissioner, HM Treasury); Nottingham East, Labour)

Further to that point of order, Mr. Griffiths. Although I made it plain last week that any Opposition request for extra time would probably be accepted as long as it was received in time, by last night we had had no such request. As a result, the Minister suggested that it would be useful to have extra time on Tuesday night in order to advance the work of the Committee. I gave a note to that effect to the Opposition last night. At 9.20 pm we were told that they had a proposal. I said that if that were put to us, we would consider it. However, I cannot see the point of convening a Sub-Committee until I know what the proposal is.

Mr Win Griffiths (Bridgend, Labour)

Now that we have discussed that, we can get on with the main business.Clause 62 Academies