I gave notice of a question which I wished to put to the Secretary for Scotland. I do not know whether there is any Minister present to take his place. Perhaps I may be allowed to read the question. It is: To ask the Secretary for Scotland whether Messrs. McShea, O'Byrn, Monaghan and O'Reilly, Irish political prisoners in Peterhead prison, are on hunger strike and whether he has any statement to make? That is a question of which I gave notice both to the Scottish Office, as soon as I received the telegram containing the information, and to the Secretary for Scotland.

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will put it down for Monday.

If the facts are as stated—and I have no reason to doubt it—it is a serious matter. I presume the Secretary for Scotland will come in for own Bill, and perhaps you would allow me to ask him then.

I cannot do that. Ministers are not bound to answer questions on a Friday.

COASTGUARD BILL [Lords].

Read the First time; to be read a Second time upon Monday next, and to be printed. [Bill 239.]