Lord Strasburger:

Moved by Lord Strasburger

That the Question be now put.

I think we have heard enough, have we not? I move that the Question be now put.

My Lords, you are now familiar with these words but I must read them again in accordance with the procedures of the House. I am instructed by order of the House to say that the Motion that the Question be now put is considered to be a most exceptional procedure and the House will not accept it save in circumstances where it is felt to be the only means of ensuring the proper conduct of the business of the House. Further, if a Member who seeks to move it persists in his intention, the practice of the House is that the Question on the Motion is put without debate. Does the noble Lord still wish to move the closure?

Yes.

Ayes 239, Noes 62.

Lord Strasburger’s Motion agreed.

Ayes 61, Noes 238.

Lord Robathan’s amendment to the Motion disagreed.