Oral Answers to Questions

John Bercow Excerpts

Tuesday 8th November 2011 Commons Chamber

[Several hon. Members]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

With extreme brevity, I call Mr Simon Hughes.

[Simon Hughes (Bermondsey and Old Southwark) (LD)]

May I say to the Minister—[Laughter.]

[Mr Speaker]

Order. We must give the right hon. Gentleman a chance.

[Simon Hughes]

May I say to the Minister that this is an inherited matter that has now lasted for 18 months? There is an obligation on the Government to sort it out soon. Can he give a commitment that victims will get their answer before the end of this calendar year?

[Mr Blunt]

Yes, Mr Speaker.

[Mr Speaker]

Well, there was exemplary brevity on both counts.

[Ian Swales (Redcar) (LD)]

T1. If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Speaker]

May I encourage Ministers to face the House, so that we get the full force of their eloquence head-on?

[Mr Jim Cunningham (Coventry South) (Lab)]

T2. Has the Minister done an impact assessment on the effect of the legal aid reforms on women?

--- Later in debate ---

[Several hon. Members]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Order. I apologise to colleagues. I should be happy to allow these exchanges to continue all day if there were time, but there is not.