Business of the House (Thursday)

Lord Hanson of Flint Excerpts

Wednesday 8th December 2010 Commons Chamber

[Sir George Young]

No representations were made through the usual channels for an extension beyond 5.30. After 5.30, I anticipate that there will be votes, which will take us to 6 o’clock, when the House usually rises.

[Mr David Hanson (Delyn) (Lab)]

rose—

[Sir George Young]

I will make a bit more progress.

Our original business plan provided for a maximum of four and a half hours’ debate.

[Mr Hanson]

Will the right hon. Gentleman give way?

[Sir George Young]

In a moment. The motion allows for the House to consider the statutory instrument and the resolution in a single debate, which removes the need for two sets of Front-Bench speeches and allows for more Back-Bench contributions.

[Mr Hanson]

The right hon. Gentleman will be aware that in Wales, where my constituency is, there is a policy not to treble tuition fees. Does he think that five hours is sufficient time for more than 500 Members from English seats to look longingly at my country?

[Sir George Young]

We had an Opposition day debate on the subject, when the right hon. Gentleman had an opportunity to debate the matter at some length. We are using the procedures set out in the legislation introduced by the Labour Government. We are following those procedures to the letter and allowing more time for the debate than was originally planned.