At the end of yesterday's debate on the Gulf, at 7 pm, Mr. Speaker, I asked the occupant of the Chair whether the Government would be ready to make a statement today. I wondered whether you had been given any information about that. The events of last night have led to unofficial statements by the President of the United States, the Prime Minister and others. Given that so much is at stake, I thought that the Government might have said that they would make a statement today before a decision is made about the Soviet peace offer.

I have received no such indication. I may hear something before 10 am. The Patronage Secretary is present, and will have heard what the right hon. Gentleman has said.