Tuesday 17th January 2023

(1 year, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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If the Minister does not want to respond, I will answer it for him. Of course, you can ask any question. That is the whole idea of topicals—to keep the Minister alive and on his feet. It is not for me to apologise when a Minister cannot answer. Let us leave it at that.

Kirsty Blackman Portrait Kirsty Blackman (Aberdeen North) (SNP)
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On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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Is it on something I have already ruled? If so, I want to make progress, but if it is completely different, I will make a judgment in a second.

Kirsty Blackman Portrait Kirsty Blackman
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It is a different question. Given that we are going into this debate without having seen the statement of reasons, will you give us a measure of flexibility by still allowing us to speak if we need to nip out to get a copy, even if we miss a few seconds of the debate?

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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I am sure we could bring copies in for you—in fact, I see that Mr Hosie is already doing due diligence in delivering them, and quite rightly too.