Points of Order

Desmond Swayne Excerpts

Wednesday 22nd January 2020 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for giving me notice of this point of order. It is not an issue for the Chair, but I recognise his frustration and he obviously quite rightly wants to take up his constituent’s case and the issue of the child visa. I am sure that people will be listening to this and I hope his concern is now being heard by Ministers and will be acted on.

[Sir Desmond Swayne (New Forest West) (Con)]

On a point of order, Mr Speaker. Do you remember that, when we were first elected, we were not allowed to read our questions? Is there not at least a possibility that were Members required to remember their questions, at least some of them would not bang on for so long, and all our time could be used more effectively?

[Mr Speaker]

When the right hon. Gentleman and I came in together in 1997, it was frowned upon to read a question; people had to do the question without help and assistance. We have a new Parliament with a lot of new Members learning the ropes, but hopefully people will get into the habit rather quickly of asking a question without aid.

[Sir Desmond Swayne]

Further to that point of order, Mr Speaker. I hate to bang on, but it is the older ones who are the worst.

[Mr Speaker]

And there is your proof: just because somebody reads their question, that does not stop us taking a lot more time.