Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill (Programme) (No. 2)

John Bercow Excerpts

Monday 20th May 2013 Commons Chamber

[Sir Gerald Howarth]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

I think the hon. Gentleman has finished his speech.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Edward Leigh (Gainsborough) (Con)]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Sir Edward Leigh.

[Mr Leigh]

No, Mr Speaker, I am not—[Interruption.]

[Mr Speaker]

I am ever hopeful, against the odds, for the hon. Gentleman.

[Mr Leigh]

The real problem is that we have only two and a half hours to discuss serious issues relating to equality protection. Given that we have a very light legislative Session, surely the Government could have given more time for that.