PM146;s trips likely to delay debate

Dasmunsi said the Government was prepared for a debate next week if other parties are not insistent upon the PM being present. In that case, Mukherjee can respond to the discussions in both Houses. If needed, the PM can make a statement on November 19, before leaving for Singapore. A clear picture would emerge only after Rajya Sabha Chairman Hamid Ansari holds a meeting with leaders of political parties on Thursday. Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee held a similar meeting on Wednesday. The Speaker later said he has directed the Government not to let any minister leave the Capital without his permission during the session.

The CPI, meanwhile, criticised the PM for scheduling 8220;foreign tours8221;, when the House was in session. Alleging that Singh was showing 8220;shocking disrespect8221; to the Parliament, the party insisted that he and his senior Cabinet colleagues should be present when matters of importance are discussed during the session. Asked about the objection raised by other parties, Dasmunsi said certain international obligations have to be met. Dates for important international conferences are fixed much in advance, he added.