Procedure of the House (Proposal 3)

Debate between Lady Saltoun of Abernethy and Lord Brabazon of Tara

Tuesday 8th November 2011 Lords Chamber

[The Chairman of Committees]

To resolve that Members should read out the text of oral questions, using the formula “My Lords, I beg leave to ask Her Majesty’s Government” followed by the text of the question; and that there should be a mandatory word limit of 25 words (excluding the introductory formula) for all oral questions.

[Lady Saltoun of Abernethy]

This is the most ridiculous idea that I have ever heard in my life. As far as I can make out, it is put forward as a time-saver: how on earth is it going to be quicker to say “My Lords, I beg leave to ask Her Majesty’s Government” and then another 25 words instead of saying “My Lords, I beg leave to ask the question standing in my name on the Order Paper”? It just does not make sense. Is it proposed, then, that the questions will not be printed on a list—or what?

Houses of Parliament: Cycle Hire

Debate between Lady Saltoun of Abernethy and Lord Brabazon of Tara

Wednesday 27th October 2010 Lords Chamber

[The Chairman of Committees]

My Lords, far be it from me to suggest a reduction in the government car pool. I understand that it has already been substantially reduced, making it in my opinion doubtful to want to be a Minister.

[Lady Saltoun of Abernethy]

My Lords, is it not time that we had a taxi rank on the Parliamentary Estate? Not all of us are young enough or spry enough to ride bicycles.

[The Chairman of Committees]

My Lords, a taxi rank takes us a little way away from the original Question on the Order Paper, but there are facilities at Peers’ Entrance for summoning taxis which I hope noble Lords find satisfactory.