Parliamentary Standards Bill

On a point of order, Sir Alan. Notwithstanding the splendid outcome of that Division, which surely represents the passion of the House on this matter and is a serious affront to the Justice Secretary, I believe that it is a constitutional outrage that a clause described by the learned Clerk as possibly having""a chilling effect on the freedom of speech of Members"" has not had a moment's debate in this Chamber. If it was not for right hon. and hon. Members having voted against the clause by three votes, despite the Government Whips' attempts to stop them, we would not be able to debate it.