Date:16/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/16/stories/2006121606331200.htm

National

Debate yes, vote no: Dasmunsi

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The Government said on Friday that it would welcome a debate in the Lok Sabha on the India-United States nuclear deal under Rule 193, which allows a short-duration discussion, but would oppose a substantive motion under Rule 184, on which a vote is mandatory.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Priyaranjan Dasmunsi said the Bharatiya Janata Party had given notices for a discussion under Rule 184, but the Government had the right to place its view before the Speaker, who would take a decision. The issue was earlier discussed under Rule 193, and moreover, a final agreement was yet to be negotiated with the United States.

The Government was not afraid of a vote as "the Left parties will never go with the BJP." However, at this juncture it was not the appropriate rule for that discussion, Mr. Dasmunsi said.