However, I do not know what the Government are going to table. The issue has a direct bearing on the debate. It is impossible to make a judgment about the suitability of the length of time that we will have to debate the issue unless we have a clearer idea about what the Government intend the motion to contain. Friend raises, there may well be sufficient time. However, I fail to understand how we could have enough time for a more general debate on the detail that is necessary to satisfy the House.
Friend is correct.
He touches on the central issue. It is unfortunate that the matter is being discussed at such a late hour, when many right hon. Members, especially after last night's late sitting, have no doubt decided that the call of their beds takes priority over our business. That would allow them to gauge our response. Once they have an impression of our reaction, they will be better placed to decide the time that should be devoted to the motion.