Parliamentary Standards Bill

Further to that point of order, Sir Alan. It is fair to say that you have not had notice of such a statement, because we have only just learned of the decision of the House, by 250 votes to 247. Of course, I understand the concerns of the House. We will respect the decision. [Interruption.] The Opposition Chief Whip is supposed to be silent, as he knows—that is what he is paid for. I say to the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed (Sir Alan Beith) that although we will not be able to do so on Report, we will take full account of the decision of the House in the consequential amendments in the other place.