>> finally the general has expired. >> general state prior inquiry. >> is there authority in this committee to permit a witness to perfuse toance a question without probably invoking a privilege? and if not what is the appropriate response from the chairman to enforce the ability to proper oversight. >> mr. chairman if i may be heard, i do not believe there's any such privilege or a right to assert -- >> the gentleman is not stating -- >> i'm asking the -- you're going to prevent us from getting answers to these questions. >> there is no rule on the chair -- >> i'd ask the witness be directed to answer the questions. >> that was -- >> congressman is this unusual to have people appearing before congress and just choosing not to answer questions without having executive privilege