---

Honours System (Reform)

: I agree with the thrust of my hon. Friend's argument and that of the hon. Member for Isle of Wight (Mr. Turner) who said that politicians may be sacked, because the public can throw them out. The so-called great and good—or independents—often have their own agenda and are accountable to no one. I am not encouraged by the so-called independents to which one or two of my hon. Friends have referred. I have heard today's debate from the beginning and I believe that one or two of my colleagues would be reluctant to make some of the statements that have been made here today if they were outside the House without parliamentary privilege. The way in which they made them was sometimes irresponsible.