I am grateful to the hon. Member for South-East Cornwall (Sir R. Hicks), and to the Minister, for allowing me to speak briefly.

The hon. Gentleman and I were sparring partners in the 1970s, and, for a brief moment—almost the twinkling of an eye—I interrupted his parliamentary career. I hope that, on this occasion, he will forgive me. I am glad to say that subsequently, in the 1990s, we have been parliamentary neighbours—and, indeed, cross-party collaborators.

I know that this may be the hon. Gentleman's final contribution in the House, and I express, from the Opposition Benches, my personal appreciation—and appreciation on behalf of many other hon. Members, and the people of Cornwall—for the work that he has undertaken on behalf of his county, his constituency and, if I may say so on a cross-party basis, those who believe in democracy and the way in which it should be represented in the House.

I live on the outskirts of the catchment area of Liskeard school and community college. I think it fitting not only to pay tribute to the talents of the hon. Member for South-East Cornwall and his advocacy of his constituents' interests, but to underline his final point: that he and, I think, all of us look to the Minister not to attempt to resist the eloquent plea that has been issued to him. It would, I think, be the final triumph of the hon. Member for South-East Cornwall's career in the House if, between us, we could persuade the Minister to be forthcoming and generous, and to use his common sense to show that, on behalf of the Government, he can respond to us positively.

I am sure that it would delight not just the hon. Member for South-East Cornwall and his successor—whoever that person may be, and whatever his party may be—and those who are present now, but, in particular, the people of Liskeard and the area it serves, if the hon. Gentleman's advocacy is successful. I hope that the Minister will respond accordingly.