Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 3:31 pm on 20th February 1992.
The hon. Gentleman talks total nonsense. The report goes way beyond the question of sittings and deals with a number of other important matters of procedure. I know that the vast majority of hon. Members would agree that many Members wish the subject of sittings to be debated, considered and probably changed. That has been made clear to me throughout my time as Leader of the House, and that is what all the pressure has been for. Therefore, it is right for us to give early consideration to the report of the Committee. That would be the wish of most hon. Members.
On the other matters which the hon. Gentleman raised, it is not necessary to have a debate a week on Monday, because he will know that the appropriate Committee of the House is considering the possibility of extending refreshment facilities for Members' guests.