Business of the House

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 12:30 pm on 29 March 2001.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Andrew Robathan Andrew Robathan Conservative, Blaby 12:30, 29 March 2001

It appears likely that a general election is imminent and every Member of the House standing for re-election may be prepared for it, but can the Leader of the House find time for a debate before any election is announced to discuss why a general election might be called? This Parliament has at least a year to run and my constituents in rural areas are stuck in their farms, in real crisis, and businesses are going bust or are under real threat. My constituents ask me, "Why on earth should we have an election now?" What possible reason is there for holding one, except some perceived advantage to the Government?