Mr Roemer and the VVD leader, Mark Rutte, who is also caretaker prime minister, have yet to take part in a debate.

ECONOMIST: The Dutch election

The former Conservative deputy prime minister decided to break his self-imposed silence to take part in a debate on the economy, on 22 March 2012.

BBC: Heseltine makes Lords maiden speech

Mr Roberts told BBC Wales earlier on Monday he had been advised at a previous meeting he could take part in a debate on the topic but not vote.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Wales | North East Wales | Council leader to put his defence