Proceedings in Lok Sabha on Tuesday started on a lighter note when an innocuous comment from Speaker Somnath Chatterjee and a repartee by Parliamentary Affairs Minister PR Dasmunsi led to peals of laughter in the House.
As soon as the House assembled at 11 am, Shiromani Akali Dal members, led by SS Dhindsa, tried to raise a matter and sought the Speaker's permission.
Chatterjee replied, "I will allow you to raise it at 12 noon".
A smiling Dasmunsi immediately stood up to tell the Speaker, "Sir, you should say that you will allow them only after the Question Hour instead of 12 noon", drawing laughter from the members.
To this, Chatterjee said "I don't know what problem '12 noon' has. But in case I have committed a mistake, I withdraw".
Amid bouts of laughter, Dhindsa acceded to the Speaker's request prompting Chatterjee to say "this reflects the spirit of cooperation with the Chair".