On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. As I was coming to the House this morning, I was listening to the "Today" programme, as is my wont, and I heard that the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families was announcing outside the House a very important new policy on A-levels and supplementary matters. He even thought that Mr. John Humphrys would need at least an hour to have them explained to him. When I came to the House, I looked in vain at the written statements on the Order Paper and found no such written statement on the matter.

Only yesterday, during business questions, as reported at column 1915 of the Official Report, the Leader of the House said that, if there was a change of policy, it would require a statement in the House. This is a change of policy. I wonder whether you have had any representations from either the Secretary of State or, indeed, the Leader of the House to explain why this gross discourtesy has taken place.

I have not been advised that any Minister wishes to make such a statement to the House, but I have no doubt that Mr. Speaker will look into the matter raised by the hon. Gentleman.

I beg to move, That the House do sit in private.

Question put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 163 (motions to sit in private):—

The House proceeded to a Division.

I ask the Serjeant at Arms to investigate the delay in the No Lobby.

The House having divided: Ayes 0, Noes 38.

Question accordingly negatived.