Questions to Ministers

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 4 December 1961.

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Photo of Mr Jeremy Thorpe Mr Jeremy Thorpe , North Devon 12:00, 4 December 1961

May I have your guidance, Mr. Speaker? Two Questions have been asked today by hon. Members relating to the affairs of a particular company. I am not interested in the company or the identity of the hon. Member. It so happens that the hon. Member was a director of that company.

As I apprehend it, the principle to be followed when a speech is made is that an interest has to be declared, but that this is not always necessary when a Question is asked. I make no complaint of the fact that no interest was declared. I ask for your guidance on whether or not it is an unfortunate practice for hon. Members to ask Questions relating to policy which are also matters acutely touching their own business interests.