Points of Order

– in the House of Commons at 4:33 pm on 22 October 2007.

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Photo of Bob Spink Bob Spink Conservative, Castle Point 4:33, 22 October 2007

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I have given notice of this point of order to Dawn Primarolo. The Independent today quotes an official setting out details of the evidence that the right hon. Lady will give in response to questions to be put to her by the Select Committee on Science and Technology on Wednesday this week. Surely Ministers' evidence to Select Committees should not be set out in advance of their receiving the questions from the Committees. How can the Science and Technology Committee function if Ministers treat us, Parliament and the public with such discourtesy? Will you look into the matter and, if necessary, ask the Minister to come before the House to explain her position?

Photo of Bill Cash Bill Cash Conservative, Stone

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Photo of Michael Martin Michael Martin Chair, Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, Speaker of the House of Commons, Chair, Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission

Let me answer the previous point of order. I gather that the Department's written evidence to the Committee, which has been published, has already indicated the Minister's view on the issue. The hon. Gentleman will, in any event, have a chance to question the Minister on Wednesday in the Committee.

Photo of Bill Cash Bill Cash Conservative, Stone

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. During altercations with the Prime Minister just now, I understand that it was not appropriate for me to ask the question that I would now like to put to you as a point of order. However, the Prime Minister made certain assertions about what I have said in the House. I should like to put it on record that I request chapter and verse from him. I think, Mr. Speaker, that you will find that his assertions were not accurate.

Photo of Michael Martin Michael Martin Chair, Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, Speaker of the House of Commons, Chair, Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission

The hon. Gentleman is awfully good at pursuing the argument through points of order. I will not rise to the bait.