---

European Union Bill

My hon. Friend makes exactly the point that concerns me most. New clause 9(5) states:"““The Committee shall consist of no more than 19 Members””—" 19 great and good—"““drawn from both Houses””." But would it include my hon. Friend the Member for Stone (Mr Cash), who is so learned and knowledgeable about European matters? Some future Government, operating that selection mechanism, might find that his services were not required, that he was more trouble than he was worth, and that he would talk too long—perhaps for longer than an hour in Committee—and tie up everyone. In such a manner, they might not include him. I, however, can think of no Member who knows more about the matter than he, except perhaps the hon. Member for Luton North.