Business of the House

Paul Sweeney Excerpts

Thursday 24th October 2019 Commons Chamber

[Mr Rees-Mogg]

Yesterday, I was at a memorial service for the late Professor Norman Stone, who was one of the first people to suggest that Russia and Turkey may have a closer relationship post the Soviet Union—his prediction showed great foresight. This is obviously an important matter. My right hon. Friend asks for a debate at the time of the NATO summit. I do not want to promise anything at this stage, but there are normally statements or debates around events of such significance.

[Mr Paul Sweeney (Glasgow North East) (Lab/Co-op)]

As next week’s business is extraordinarily light, will the Leader of the House consider asking the Transport Secretary to make a statement on the forthcoming sale of First Bus across the UK? What provisions can be made with the Treasury to finance local authorities that are purchasing the assets of FirstGroup across the UK to create a municipal bus service?

[Mr Rees-Mogg]

I must disagree with the hon. Gentleman’s principal point—the business next week is extremely heavy.