Planning (Opencast Mining Separation Zones) Bill

Lindsay Hoyle Excerpts

Friday 11th February 2011 Commons Chamber

[Chris Bryant (Rhondda) (Lab)]

Many Members in the Chamber feel passionately about this issue because it directly affects their constituents. Two hon. Members have asked the Minister a direct question: do the Government support, oppose or tolerate the Bill? It seems that the Minister is trying to talk for another half hour, but that would be cowardly and would not answer—

[Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Lindsay Hoyle)]

Order. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman does not mean that and that he will take back the word “cowardly”.

[Chris Bryant]

Obviously I am not saying that the Minister is being cowardly, but if he were to do that, he would be cowardly.

[Mr Deputy Speaker]

Order. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will withdraw the word “cowardly” in this case.

[Chris Bryant]

If that is your ruling, Mr Deputy Speaker, I am happy to withdraw the word, but I want the Minister to answer the question directly for the people in the constituencies that are most affected, because otherwise he is a disgrace.

[Mr Deputy Speaker]

Order. We should not get carried away. Minister, I am sure that you have heard the points—you carry on.

[Andrew Stunell]

Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker.

I can assure the hon. Member for Rhondda (Chris Bryant) that before we get to 2.30 pm, he will understand the Government’s view of the Bill. There will no doubt be further opportunities for Members to interrogate me about our decision and the way in which we reached it.