Business of the House (Thursday)

Debate between Hazel Blears and Hilary Benn

Wednesday 8th December 2010 Commons Chamber

[Hilary Benn]

I am sure that the House is extremely grateful for that guidance, Mr Speaker.

[Hazel Blears (Salford and Eccles) (Lab)]

I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for giving way. Does he agree that one of the greatest achievements in recent years has been extending participation to young people from disadvantaged communities? Salford university takes 45% of its students from the local area, and that includes many young people who otherwise would not have the chance to go to university. Does my right hon. Friend agree that the curtailment of the debate tomorrow will mean that the voices of those particularly disadvantaged young people will not be heard?

[Hilary Benn]

That is the case. With five hours, there will be an opportunity for only a relatively small number of Members to participate in the debate. The number of Members who have sought to intervene in this debate tonight is a pretty good indication of the number who will want to speak tomorrow.