Jim Shannon
Main Page: Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party - Strangford)Points of Order
Jim Shannon Excerpts
Mr Speaker
The answer is no, I have had no such indication. However, at least those on the Government Front Bench will have heard the question.
Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)
On a point of order, Mr Speaker. I rise to seek your guidance on a matter concerning the rules of courtesy and the rights of this House. Earlier today, Ministers chose to issue a major press release outlining critical new Government policies regarding young people and jobs, yet we have had no such statement. “Erskine May” is entirely clear that major policy announcements should be made first to this House before they are given to the media. It is an absolute discourtesy to Parliament that Members must read about vital employment initiatives for our youth in the newspapers, rather than hearing them directly from the Dispatch Box. Have you, Mr Speaker—
Mr Speaker
Order. I think I have got the message. You are absolutely right, but I am not responsible for statements. Once again, I am sure that those on the Government Front Bench will have heard you.