Orders of the Day — Northern Ireland Constitution (Amendment) Bill

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 13 December 1973.

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Photo of Mr Selwyn Lloyd Mr Selwyn Lloyd , Wirral 12:00, 13 December 1973

The hon. Gentleman has asked me to rule on what might appear to be the almost normal consequences of an Irish debate. I do not think that Speakers in this House have ever been very successful in deciding on these matters. I distinctly recollect reading various accounts of what has happened here during debates on Irish problems. I do not think that Westminster has been awfully good in this respect. However, I must rule as best I can.

I do not think that there was an allegation against the hon. Member for Antrim, North which I should describe as being beyond the rules of order. I will not pronounce on the content of any remarks that have been made. I have always maintained that position. I respectfully suggest that we get on with the debate on the Second Reading of the Bill and the various orders.