DEBATES
Most, but not all discussions in the House of Commons 
are held in the form of debates, usually opened by a 
minister. The opposition spokesman then puts forward 
the opposing case, after which the Speaker throws the 
debate open to the backbenchers. 

MPs who wish to speak have to 'catch the Speaker's eye. 
They do this by rising to their feet - and have to sit again 
when a speaker has been called. Members may also try to 
interrupt a speaker - who can either refuse the interruption or 
'give way' for a moment. Except when interrupted, members are normally only allowed to speak once during a debate.