Last Wednesday when Deputy Cowan, under Standing Order 29, requested leave to move the Adjournment of the House on a definite matter of urgent public importance, I undertook, at the request of the Deputy, to refer to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges the matter of the letter of the Minister for External Affairs to Deputy Dr. Browne. Since then I have had an opportunity of seeing the text of the letter in question and have come to the conclusion that no prima facie case of breach of privilege is involved and, accordingly, I now inform the House and the Deputy that I do not myself propose to initiate such consideration.
Minister's Letter—Suggested Reference to Committee on Procedure and Privileges.
I take it the decision of the Chair does not prohibit me from placing the matter before the Committee?
No. The Deputy can take such action as he may be advised or desires.