David Norris (Independent)

As the Leader indicated, he interrupted me; therefore, I am entitled to finish. He does not usually do so; he is courteous. At least, we managed to squeeze out a reason. We understand the Minister for Finance is under considerable pressure and has great demands on his time but Ministers are servants of the House, not masters, whatever the circumstances.

What worries me more is the constant pressure exerted on the Order of Business. We are told about time considerations but we started nearly ten minutes late, according to the clock in the Chamber; therefore, it cannot be a matter of time on a day such as this. We should be very careful before we close this important aspect of our business, when significant matters are raised in the House. I have always felt passionately about the Order of Business and have sought and obtained extensions to it. Members of the Leader's party think it is important but it has been opposed at the Committee on Procedure and Privileges and I understand the opposition has come from the Leader. We should not close the most significant element of our business.