... Minister in charge of parliamentary affairs Mohd Nazri Abdul Aziz then stood up and told Kiandee that the government is of the view that Anwar should given a week to back up his claims, considering that he is not in the House to respond directly.

"The accusation is very serious... we propose that Permatang Pauh be given one week to respond or to correct his statement."

Should Anwar fail to provide a satisfactory explanation, Nazri said the government would move a motion to refer him to the rights and privileges committee.

"This is not a ruling. I have not made a ruling. I am only agreeing with the minister in order to provide a solution," said Kiandee.

Anwar has just returned from London as part of a global campaign to drum up support in relation to the Sodomy II trial.