The Business Committee has agreed to allow up to one hour and 30 minutes for the debate. The proposer of the motion will have 10 minutes in which to propose and 10 minutes in which to make a winding-up speech. An amendment has been selected and published on the Marshalled List, so the Business Committee has agreed that 15 minutes will be added to the total time for debate.

Before the debate begins, I will make a few brief remarks. I understand that Members will wish to express their feelings on recent events. I remind them, however, to avoid making comments about individuals so far charged with criminal acts. I know that all Members will be mindful of the events of the past week and will want to conduct the debate respectfully and constructively so that the tone, language and behaviour do justice to the serious issues involved. One final issue: in the event that any of our new Members is called to speak, their contribution will not count as a maiden speech, given that we have been recalled for the purpose of discussing a specific matter of urgent public importance.