The case against Abu Hamza will be heard in January 2005

Commons speaker Michael Martin said he would seek to clarify a rule which prevents parliament discussing the case while it is considered by the courts.

Abu Hamza's case was adjourned on Monday until January 2005.

A Labour MP said it would seem bizarre to the public that the subject was not discussed by MPs for nine months.

I strongly urge you to write to me on this matter and I will give it very serious consideration Michael Martin Commons speaker

Andrew Dismore, Labour MP for Hendon, has claimed the subjudice rule had been invoked by commons officials "gagged" MPs from asking questions about the case.

"As the case was adjourned yesterday until January 2005 that effectively gags Parliament from discussing this case for almost a year.

"This case has generated huge public interest ... and I think people would regard it as bizarre that we cannot discuss it in the House," he said in a point of order.

"Will you review the operation of the rule in this case to ensure the public concerns over Abu Hamza can be aired in the House properly?"

'Threat to society'

Mr Martin told him: "I strongly urge you to write to me on this matter and I will give it very serious consideration."

Home Secretary David Blunkett believes radical cleric Abu Hamza is linked to international terrorism and a threat to society.

Efforts to have him stripped of his British citizenship and deported to Yemen have been delayed by his refusal to produce defence evidence and rows over legal aid.