Commons Journal

House of Commons

Session 1997-1998

Commons Journal 254
Chronological Index
Alphabetical Index - Part I
Alphabetical Index - Part II

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[No. 84.]
Monday 8th December 1997.

The House met at half-past Two o'clock.
PRAYERS.

1 Waste Minimisation Bill,—Angela Smith, supported by Ms Debra Shipley, Sir Teddy Taylor, Mr Matthew Taylor, Mrs Margaret Ewing, Mr Cynog Dafis, Mr Alan Simpson, Mr David Drew, Joan Walley, Mr Barry Sheerman, Mr David Chaytor and Julia Drown, presented a Bill to enable certain local authorities to make arrangements to minimise the generation of waste in their area; and for related purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday and to be printed [Bill 97].

2 Government of Wales Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Government of Wales Bill;

Mr Secretary Davies acquainted the House, That he had it in Command from the Queen to acquaint the House that Her Majesty, having been informed of the purport of the Bill, has consented to place Her prerogative and interest, so far as they are affected by the Bill, at the disposal of Parliament for the purposes of the Bill.

A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the Bill be now read a second time;

An Amendment was proposed to the Question, to leave out from the word ‘That' to the end of the Question and add the words ‘this House, deploring the failure of Her Majesty's Government to respond to and allay the legitimate fears of the Welsh people expressed in the referendum vote of 18th September and in particular the omission from the Government of Wales Bill of any statutory assurances in relation to the supremacy of the Westminster Parliament, to the protection of geographic and cultural minorities, to the proper resourcing of Wales to reflect need, and to the safeguarding of the position of Wales within the United Kingdom and its voice within Europe, declines to a give a Second Reading to the Government of Wales Bill', instead thereof.—(Mr Michael Ancram.)

And the Question being proposed, That the Amendment be made;

And it being Ten o'clock, the Debate stood adjourned.

Ordered, That the Debate be resumed to-morrow.

3 Administration,—Ordered, That Dr Nick Palmer be added to the Administration Committee.—(Mr Clive Betts, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.)

4 Catering,—Ordered, That Mr Patrick McLoughlin be discharged from the Catering Committee and Mr Keith Simpson be added to the Committee.—(Mr Clive Betts, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.)

5 Education and Employment,—Ordered, That Mr Cynog Dafis be discharged from the Education and Employment Committee and Mr Paul Keetch be added to the Committee.—(Mr Clive Betts, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.)

6 Welsh Affairs,—Ordered, That Mr Paul Flynn be discharged from the Welsh Affairs Committee and Mr Huw Edwards be added to the Committee.—(Mr Clive Betts, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.)

7 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Janet Anderson.)

And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till twenty-nine minutes past Ten o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 10.29 p.m.

APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

1 Fire Services,—Firemen's Pension Scheme (Amendment No. 2) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2851), dated 1st December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Straw].

2 Judgments,—Civil Jurisdiction and Judgments Act 1982 (Provisional and Protective Measures) (Scotland) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2780), dated 26th November 1997 [by Act] [Mrs Ann Taylor].

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3 Local Government,—(1) Local Authorities (Contracts) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2862), dated 2nd December 1997, and

(2) Local Government Changes for England (Property Transfer) (Humberside) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2842), dated 28th November 1997

[by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

4 Local Government (Scotland),—Local Authorities (Contracts) (Scotland) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2879), dated 2nd December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar].

5 Medicines,—(1) Medicines (Pharmacies) (Applications for Registration and Fees) Amendment Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2876), dated 4th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dobson]; and

(2) Medicines (Restrictions on the Administration of Veterinary Medicinal Products) Amendment Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2884), dated 4th December 1997 [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham].

6 Ministers of the Crown,—Transfer of Functions (Insurance) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2781), dated 26th November 1997 [by Act] [Mrs Ann Taylor].

7 National Health Service,—(1) East Glamorgan National Health Service Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2652), and

(2) Rhondda Health Care National Health Service Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2651),

dated 2nd December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Davies].

8 Police,—Police Pensions (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2852), dated 1st December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Straw].

Other Papers:

9 Aid and Trade Provison,—Department for International Development Minute, dated 4th December 1997, concerning a contingent liability consequent upon indemnification of Banque Paribas from tax liability which may be incurred as a result of a loan to finance the Outer Islands Diesel Generation Project in Indonesia [by Command] [Secretary Clare Short].

10 Courts and Legal Services,—Report and Accounts of the Lord Chancellor's Advisory Committee on Legal Education and Conduct for 1996–97 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 375] [Mr Geoffrey Hoon].

11 Deregulation,—Proposal under the Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994 by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions for the Deregulation (Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles) Order 1998, with an explanatory memorandum [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

12 Local Government,—Accounts of the Staff Commission for Wales for—

(1) 1996–97, and

(2) the period 1st April 1997 to 4th July 1997,

with the Reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act] [Mr Secretary Davies].

13 Museums and Galleries,—Accounts of the Victoria and Albert Museum for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 397] [Clerk of the House].

14 National Audit,—Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General on Regulating and Monitoring the Quality of Service Provided to Customers by the Water Industry in England and Wales [by Act]; to be printed [No. 388] [Clerk of the House].

APPENDIX II

Reports from Select Committees

Public Accounts,—(1) Thirteenth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Criminal Legal Aid Means Testing in the Magistrates' Courts]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 416];

(2) Fourteenth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [HM Customs and Excise: The Seizure of Drug Traffickers' Assets]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 417];

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(3) Fifteenth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority: Sale of Facilities Services Division], together with a Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 418]; and

(4) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee of Public Accounts on 8th December [Prison catering]; to be printed [No. 419–i]

[Mr David Davis].

[No. 85.]
Tuesday 9th December 1997.

The House met at half-past Two o'clock.
PRAYERS.

1 Scottish Agricultural College Order Confirmation Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Scottish Agricultural College Order Confirmation Bill.

Bill to be read the third time to-morrow.

2 European Standing Committee B,—Mr Barry Jones reported from European Standing Committee B the following Resolution:

That the Committee takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to structural and cohesion policy; and supports the Government's aim that the reformed Funds should take account of the United Kingdom's regional interests and be fair to the United Kingdom in relation to other Member States, and that the reforms should make the Funds simpler, more efficient, affordable and durable.

Report, together with Resolution, to lie upon the Table.

3 Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mrs Marion Roe reported from the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Non-Domestic Rating (Chargeable Amounts) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997.

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table.

4 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows:

Public Processions (Northern Ireland) Bill [Lords],—The Lords have passed a Bill, intituled, An Act to amend the law relating to public processions in Northern Ireland; to provide for the establishment and functions of the Parades Commission for Northern Ireland; and for connected purposes; to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House.

5 Public Processions (Northern Ireland) Bill [Lords],—The Public Processions (Northern Ireland) Bill [Lords] was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time to-morrow and to be printed [Bill 101].

6 Press Complaints Commission,—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to provide for the establishment of a statutory Press Complaints Commission; to make further provisions in respect of libel actions brought against newspapers; and for connected purposes: And that Mr Anthony Steen, Mr Clive Soley, Mr Martin Bell and Sir Geoffrey Johnson Smith do prepare and bring it in.

7 Press Complaints Commission Bill,—Mr Anthony Steen accordingly presented a Bill to provide for the establishment of a statutory Press Complaints Commission; to make further provisions in respect of libel actions brought against newspapers; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 12th December and to be printed [Bill 99].

8 Government of Wales Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Amendment proposed to be made to the Question proposed yesterday, That the Government of Wales Bill be now read a second time;

Which Amendment was to leave out from the word ‘That' to the end of the Question and to add the words ‘this House, deploring the failure of Her Majesty's Government to respond to and allay the legitimate fears of the Welsh people expressed in the referendum vote of 18th September and in particular the omission from the Government of Wales Bill of any statutory assurances in relation to the supremacy of the Westminster Parliament, to the protection of geographic and cultural minorities, to the proper resourcing of Wales to reflect need, and to the safeguarding of the position of Wales within the United

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Kingdom and its voice within Europe, declines to give a Second Reading to the Government of Wales Bill.', instead thereof.

And the Question being again proposed, That the Amendment be made:—The House resumed the adjourned Debate;

And the Question being put;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr James Cran, Mr Oliver Heald: 144.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr John McFall, Mr David Clelland: 375.

So the Question was negatived.

And the Main Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 62 (Amendment on second or third reading);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr John McFall, Mr David Clelland: 374.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Oliver Heald, Mr James Cran: 143.

So the Question was agreed to.

The Bill was accordingly read a second time.

A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That—

(1) Clauses Nos. 1, 4, 22, 58, 80 and 118 be committed to a Committee of the whole House;

(2) the remainder of the Bill be committed to a Standing Committee; and

(3) when the provisions of the Bill considered, respectively, by the Committee of the whole House and by the Standing Committee have been reported to the House, the Bill be proceeded with as if the Bill had been reported as a whole to the House from the Standing Committee—(Mr Win Griffiths);

And the Motion being opposed, after a brief explanatory statement from the Member who made the Motion and from a Member who opposed it, the Deputy Speaker put the Question, pursuant to paragraph (3) of Standing Order No. 63 (Committal of Bills).

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr David Clelland, Mr John McFall: 359.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Oliver Heald, Mr James Cran: 139.

So the Question was agreed to.

Ordered, That—

(1) Clauses Nos. 1, 4, 22, 58, 80 and 118 be committed to a Committee of the whole House;

(2) the remainder of the Bill be committed to a Standing Committee; and

(3) when the provisions of the Bill considered, respectively, by the Committee of the whole House and by the Standing Committee have been reported to the House, the Bill be proceeded with as if the Bill had been reported as a whole to the House from the Standing Committee.

Committee to-morrow.

9 Government of Wales Bill [Money],—Her Majesty's Recommendation having been signified to the proposed Motion relating to Government of Wales Bill [Money];

A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 52 (Money resolutions and ways and means resolutions in connection with bills), That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Government of Wales Bill, it is expedient to authorise—

(1) the payment out of money provided by Parliament of—

(a) any expenditure incurred by any Minister of the Crown or government department under or by virtue of the Act, and

(b) any increase attributable to the Act in the sums payable out of money so provided under any other enactment,

(2) the payment out of the National Loans Fund of—

(a) any sums required by a Minister of the Crown for making loans or other payments to the National Assembly for Wales in accordance with the Act, and

(b) any increase attributable to the Act in the sums payable out of that Fund under any other enactment, and

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(3) the payment of sums into the National Loans Fund or the Consolidated Fund—(Mr Greg Pope):—It was agreed to.

10 Estimates,—It being after Ten o'clock, the Speaker put the Questions required to be put pursuant to paragraph (1) of Standing Order No. 55 (Questions on voting of Estimates, &c.).

Estimates, 1997–98 (Air) Vote A.

Resolved, That during the year ending on 31st March 1998 an additional number not exceeding 40 all ranks be maintained for Air Force Service and an additional number not exceeding 305 for Service in the Air Force Reserve Forces.

Supplementary Estimates, 1997–98

Resolved, That a supplementary sum, not exceeding £634,729,000 be granted to Her Majesty out of the Consolidated Fund to defray the charges for civil services which will come in course of payment during the year ending on 31st March 1998, as set out in HC 278 of Session 1997–98.

Estimates 1998–99 (Vote on Account)

Resolved, That a sum, not exceeding £97,354,245,000 be granted to Her Majesty out of the Consolidated Fund, on account, for or towards defraying the charges for civil and defence services for the year ending on 31st March 1999, as set out in HC 279, 280 and 281 of Session 1997–98.

11 Consolidated Fund,—Ordered, That a Bill be brought in upon the foregoing Resolutions relating to Supplementary Estimates and Vote on Account: And that the Chairman of Ways and Means, Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr Alistair Darling, Mr Geoffrey Robinson, Dawn Primarolo and Mrs Helen Liddell do prepare and bring it in.

12 Consolidated Fund Bill,—Dawn Primarolo accordingly presented a Bill to apply certain sums out of the Consolidated Fund to the service of the years ending on 31st March 1998 and 1999.

And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time this day and to be printed [Bill 98].

13 Consolidated Fund Bill,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 56 (Consolidated Fund Bills) and Order [2nd December], That the Consolidated Fund Bill be now read a second time:—It was agreed to.

And the Question being put forthwith, That the Bill be now read the third time:—It was agreed to.

The Bill was accordingly read the third time, and passed.

14 European Communities,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft European Communities (Immunities and Privileges of the European Police Office) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 19th November, be approved—(Mr Greg Pope);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr David Clelland, Mr John McFall: 286.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Peter Luff, Mr James Gray: 60.

So the Question was agreed to.

Resolved, That the draft European Communities (Immunities and Privileges of the European Police Office) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 19th November, be approved.

15 European Communities,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft European Communities (Definition of Treaties) (European Police Office) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 19th November, be approved—(Jane Kennedy);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr David Clelland, Mr John McFall: 303.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Peter Luff, Mr James Gray: 31.

So the Question was agreed to.

Resolved,—That the European Communities (Definition of Treaties) (European Police Office) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 19th November, be approved.

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16 International Immunities and Privileges,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft OSPAR Commission (Immunities and Privileges) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 19th November, be approved—(Jane Kennedy):—It was agreed to.

17 Family Law,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Child Support (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 1997, which were laid before this House on 18th November, be approved—(Jane Kennedy):—It was agreed to.

18 Value Added Tax,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Value Added Tax (Drugs, Medicines and Aids for the Handicapped) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2744), dated 18th November 1997, a copy of which was laid before this House on 18th November, be approved—(Jane Kennedy);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Bridget Prentice, Mr Robert Ainsworth: 262.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Peter Luff, Mr James Gray: 57.

So the Question was agreed to.

Resolved, That the Value Added Tax (Drugs, Medicines and Aids for the Handicapped) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2744), dated 18th November 1997, a copy of which was laid before this House on 18th November, be approved.

19 Criminal Law (Northern Ireland),—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996 (Code of Practice) (Northern Ireland) Order 1997, dated 12th November 1997, a copy of which was laid before this House on 13th November, be approved—(Jane Kennedy):—It was agreed to.

20 Public Petitions,—A Public Petition from residents of the United Kingdom on the classification of films was presented and read; and ordered to lie upon the Table and to be printed.

21 Public Petitions,—A Public Petition from citizens of the United Kingdom on lone parent benefits was presented; and ordered to lie upon the Table and to be printed.

22 Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Jane Kennedy);

Wednesday 10th December 1997

And the Motion having been made after Ten o'clock on Tuesday evening, and the Debate having continued for half an hour, the Deputy Speaker adjourned the House without Question put, pursuant to Standing Order, it being then Twelve o'clock on Wednesday morning, till this day.

[Adjourned at 12.00 a.m.

APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

1 Consumer Protection,—Cosmetic Products (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2914), dated 6th December 1997 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

2 Food,—Charges for Inspections and Controls Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2893), dated 8th December 1997 [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham].

3 Insurance,—Insurance Companies (Accounts and Statements) (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2911), dated 30th November 1997 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

4 Local Government (Scotland),—Local Government Property Commission (Scotland) (Winding Up) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2880), dated 2nd December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar].

5 Medicines,—Medicines (Veterinary Drugs) (Pharmacy and Merchants' List) (Amendment) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2892), dated 8th December 1997 [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham].

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6 Plant Health,—Plant Health (Great Britain) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2907), dated 8th December 1997 [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham].

7 Sea Fisheries,—Sole, Plaice, etc. (Specified Sea Areas) (Prohibition of Fishing) (No. 2) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2891), dated 8th December 1997 [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham].

8 Telecommunications,—(1) Public Telecommunication System Designation (Shropshire Cable & Telecoms Limited) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2910), and

(2) Public Telecommunication System Designation (Sussex Cable & Telecoms Limited) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2909),

dated 3rd December 1997 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

9 Value Added Tax,—Value Added Tax (Amendment) (No. 5) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2887), dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Dawn Primarolo].

Other Papers:

10 Air Force (Constitution),—Amendments to Queen's Regulations for the Royal Air Force [by Act] [Mr Secretary Robertson].

11 Electoral Law,—Report of the Chief Electoral Officer for Northern Ireland for 1996–97 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 385] [Secretary Marjorie Mowlam].

12 Marine and Aviation Insurance (War Risks),—Accounts of the Marine and Aviation Insurance (War Risks) Fund for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 414] [Clerk of the House].

13 Museums and Galleries,—Report and Financial Statements of the Greater Manchester Museum of Science and Industry Trust for 1996–97 [by Command] [Mr Secretary Smith].

14 National Audit,—Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General on the Crown Prosecution Service [by Act]; to be printed [No. 400] [Clerk of the House].

15 National Health Service,—Paper, entitled The New NHS [by Command] [Cm. 3807] [Mr Secretary Dobson].

16 National Health Service (Scotland),—Paper, entitled Designed to Care: Renewing the National Health Service in Scotland [by Command] [Cm. 3811] [Mr Secretary Dewar].

17 Pensions,—Annual Report of the Pensions Compensation Board for the period 1st August 1996 to 31st July 1997 [by Act] [Secretary Harriet Harman].

18 Science and Technology,—Report of the Medical Research Council for 1996–97 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

19 Superannuation,—Civil Service Compensation Scheme (Amendment) Scheme 1997 (No. 2) [by Act] [Dr David Clark].

20 Telecommunications,—Licences granted under section 7 of the Telecommunications Act 1984 by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to—

(1) Shropshire Cable & Telecoms Limited, and

(2) Sussex Cable & Telecoms Limited

[by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

1 Mink Keeping Order 1997:

(1) The Speaker has appointed Dr Michael Clark Chairman of the Ninth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation in respect of the Order, in place of Mr Peter Atkinson; and

(2) The Committee of Selection has discharged from the Committee Mr Paul Marsden (nominated in respect of the Order); and has appointed in substitution Mr Gwyn Prosser.

2 Northern Ireland Grand Committee,—The Speaker has appointed Mr Peter Atkinson Chairman of the Northern Ireland Grand Committee in respect of the meeting of the Committee on Thursday 11th December, in place of Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody.

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APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1 Agriculture,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Agriculture Committee on 9th December [Food Safety]; to be printed [No. 331–iii]; and

(2) Memoranda laid before the Agriculture Committee [CAP reform: Agenda 2000; Food safety]
[Mr Peter Luff].

2 Education and Employment,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Employment Sub-Committee of the Education and Employment Committee on 9th December [The Relationship between TECs and the proposed Regional Development Agencies]; to be printed [No. 265–iii] [Mr Derek Foster]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Education Sub-Committee of the Education and Employment Committee on 9th December [”Excellence for all Children”: The Green Paper on Special Educational Needs]; to be printed [No. 421–i] [Ms Margaret Hodge].

3 Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee on 9th December [Regional Development Agencies]; to be printed [No. 415–i] [Mr Andrew F. Bennett]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee on 9th December [Regional Development Agencies]; to be printed [No. 415–ii] [Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody].

4 Foreign Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Foreign Affairs Committee on 9th December [The Dependent Territories Review]; to be printed [No. 347–iii] [Mr Donald Anderson].

5 International Development,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the International Development Committee on 9th December [The Renegotiation of the Lome" Convention]; to be printed [No. 365–ii] [Mr Bowen Wells].

6 Public Administration,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Public Administration Committee on 9th December [The Report of the Health Service Commissioner for 1996–97]; to be printed [No. 352–iii] [Mr Rhodri Morgan].

7 Statutory Instruments,—Sixteenth Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, together with the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee on 9th December and Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be printed [No. 33–xvi] [Mr David Tredinnick].

8 Treasury,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Treasury Committee on 9th December [The Pre-Budget Report]; to be printed [No. 420–i] [Mr Giles Radice].

9 Welsh Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Welsh Affairs Committee on 9th December [The Impact of Devolution on Local Government and Economic Development in Wales]; to be printed [No. 329–vii] [Mr Martyn Jones].

[No. 86.]
Wednesday 10th December 1997.

The House met at half-past Nine o'clock.
PRAYERS.

1 Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Jane Kennedy);

And it being Two o'clock, the Motion for the Adjournment of the House lapsed, without Question put, pursuant to the Standing Order.

2 Scottish Agricultural College Order Confirmation Bill,—The Scottish Agricultural College Order Confirmation Bill was, according to Order, read the third time and passed.

3 European Standing Committee A,—Mr Edward O'Hara reported from European Standing Committee A the following Resolution:

That the Committee takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to reform of the Common Agricultural Policy; and supports

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the Government's objective of a market-oriented CAP with less emphasis on production-related agricultural support and more emphasis on targeted environmental and rural objectives.

Report, together with Resolution, to lie upon the Table.

4 European Standing Committee B,—Mr Peter Atkinson reported from European Standing Committee B the following Resolution:

That the Committee takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to the new financial framework for the European Community; and supports the Government in its policy of achieving enlargement of the European Union while maintaining the Own Resources ceiling of 1.27 per cent.

Report, together with Resolution, to lie upon the Table.

5 Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Bowen Wells reported from the Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Museums and Galleries (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table.

6 Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Andrew Welsh reported from the Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Advice and Assistance (Assistance by Way of Representation) (Scotland) Regulations 1997 and the draft Criminal Legal Aid (Scotland) (Prescribed Proceedings) Regulations 1997.

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table.

7 Representation of Gibraltar at Westminster and in the European Union Bill,—The Order for reading the Representation of Gibraltar at Westminster and in the European Union Bill a second time on Friday 12th December was read and discharged.

Bill to be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

8 Representation of Dependencies at Westminster Bill,—The Order for reading the Representation of Dependencies at Westminster Bill a second time on Friday 12th December was read and discharged.

Bill to be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

9 Widening of the M25 Motorway Bill,—The Order for reading the Widening of the M25 Motorway Bill a second time on Friday 12th December was read and discharged.

Bill to be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

10 War Widows and Pensioners (Equal Treatment) Bill,—The Order for reading the War Widows and Pensioners (Equal Treatment) Bill a second time on Friday 12th December was read and discharged.

Bill to be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

11 Regional Development Agencies Bill,—Mr Secretary Prescott, supported by the Prime Minister, Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr Secretary Straw, Mr Secretary Blunkett, Secretary Margaret Beckett, Dr John Cunningham, Mr Secretary Smith, Mr Richard Caborn and Angela Eagle, presented a Bill to make provision for regional development agencies in England; to make provision about the Development Commission and the Urban Regeneration Agency; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time to-morrow and to be printed [Bill 100].

12 Social Security,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Council Tax Benefit (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 1841) be referred to a Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation—(Mr Jon Owen Jones):—It was agreed to.

13 Doctor Assisted Dying,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to enable a person who is suffering distress as a result of his terminal illness or incurable physical condition to obtain assistance from a doctor to end his life; and for connected purposes—(Mr Joe Ashton);

And the Motion being opposed, after a brief explanatory statement from the Member who made the Motion and from a Member who opposed it, the Deputy Speaker put the Question, pursuant to Standing Order No. 23 (Motions for leave to bring in bills and nomination of select committees at commencement of public business).

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Joe Ashton, Dr Jenny Tonge: 89.

Tellers for the Noes, Miss Ann Widdecombe, Mr Jim Dobbin: 234.

So the Question was negatived.

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14 Social Security Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Social Security Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee.

Ordered,That the Bill, as amended, be considered in the following order, namely, new Clauses; new Schedules; Clauses 1 to 3; Clauses 9 to 12; Clauses 18 and 19; Clauses 4 to 8; Schedule 1; Clause 13; Clause 77; Schedules 2 and 3; Clauses 14 and 15; Schedule 4; Clauses 16 and 17; Schedule 5; Clauses 20 to 22; Clause 35; Clause 23; Clause 59; Clauses 24 to 34; Clauses 36 and 37; Clauses 39 to 58; Clauses 60 to 69; Clause 38; Clause 73; Clauses 70 to 72; Clauses 74 to 76; Clauses 78 to 80; Schedules 6 and 7; Clause 81.—(Mr Jon Owen Jones.)

A Clause (Child Benefit for lone parents)—(Steve Webb)—brought up, and read the first time.

Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time.

Mr Nicholas Brown rose in his place and claimed to move, That the Question be now put;

And the Question being put, That the Question be now put:—It was agreed to.

And the Question being accordingly put, That the Clause be read a second time;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Alex Salmond, Mr Donald Gorrie: 62.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Jim Dowd: 458.

Another Clause (Backdating of benefit)—(Steve Webb)—brought up, and read the first time.

Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time;

And it being Ten o'clock, the Debate stood adjourned.

15 Business of the House,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 15 (Exempted business), That, at this day's sitting, the Social Security Bill may be proceeded with, though opposed, until any hour—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to.

16 Social Security Bill,—The House again proceeded to consider the Social Security Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee.

Another Clause (Backdating of benefit).

Question again proposed, That the Clause be read a second time;

Question put;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Adrian Sanders, Mr Paul Keetch: 57.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Jim Dowd: 345.

A Schedule (Exceptions to the backdating of benefits)—(Mr Nigel Waterson)—brought up, and read the first time.

Question put, That the Schedule be read a second time;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr John Whittingdale, Mr James Cran: 192.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Jim Dowd: 374.

Amendments (Nos. 12, 10, 11, 21 and 22) made to the Bill.

Amendment (No. 3) proposed to the Bill, in page 54, line 15, at the end to insert the words—

‘Appeals in certain types of case

10.—(1) The President shall make arrangements for the identification of appeals made under section 13 of this Act which appear to him to raise questions of general importance relating to the interpretation or application of the law in respect of which the Secretary of State has decision making functions under section 1 or section 2 of this Act.

(2) The President shall, in making such arrangements as are referred to in sub-paragraph (1) above, delegate such of his powers in that regard as seen to him appropriate to any full-time chairman of appeal tribunals who hold office for the time being.

(3) The President shall, when he identifies any cases as are mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) above, make such further arrangements as are necessary to ensure that such appeals are determined as soon as reasonably practicable in priority to other pending appeals.'.—(Mr Archy Kirkwood.)

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Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Other Amendments (Nos. 23, 24 and 13 to 17) made to the Bill.

Another Amendment (No. 1) proposed to the Bill, in page 46, line 35, to leave out from the beginning to the end of line 1 on page 47.—(Steve Webb.)

Question put, That the Amendment be made;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Paul Tyler, Mr Andrew Stunell: 107.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Jim Dowd: 457.

Other Amendments (Nos. 18, 34 to 38, 25 to 30, 40 to 48, 19, 33 and 20) made to the Bill.

A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the Bill be now read the third time;

Thursday 11th December 1997

And the Question being put;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Jim Dowd, Mr David Jamieson: 295.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Paul Tyler, Mr Adrian Sanders: 58.

So the Question was agreed to.

The Bill was accordingly read the third time, and passed.

17 Broadcasting,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Channel 4 (Application of Excess Revenues) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 20th November, be approved—(Mr Kevin Hughes):—It was agreed to.

18 Local Government,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) (National Health Service Trusts) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2763), dated 20th November 1997, a copy of which was laid before this House on 20th November, be approved—(Mr Kevin Hughes):—It was agreed to.

19 Copyright,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Copyright and Rights in Databases Regulations 1997, which were laid before this House on 6th November, be approved—(Mr Kevin Hughes):—It was agreed to.

20 Employment Law,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Standing Committees), That this House takes note of European Community Document No. 10230/97, on a proposal for a directive on part-time work, and European Community Document No. 10975/97, Parts A and B, on proposals for directives extending the European Works Councils Directive and the Parental Leave Directive to the United Kingdom; and supports the Government's view that these proposals will contribute to a flexible labour market based on partnership between employers and employees and decent minimum standards at work—(Mr Kevin Hughes);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Jim Dowd, Mr David Jamieson: 331.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Maclean, Mr Peter Luff: 18.

So the Question was agreed to.

Resolved, That this House takes note of European Community Document No. 10230/97, on a proposal for a directive on part-time work, and European Community Document No. 10975/97, Parts A and B, on proposals for directives extending the European Works Councils Directive and the Parental Leave Directive to the United Kingdom; and supports the Government's view that these proposals will contribute to a flexible labour marked based on partnership between employers and employees and decent minimum standards at work.

21 Agenda 2000: Structural and Cohesion Funds,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Standing Committees), That this House takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to structural and cohesion policy; and supports the Government's aim that the reformed Funds should take account of the United Kingdom's regional interests and be fair to the United Kingdom in relation to other Member States, and that the

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reforms should make the Funds simpler, more efficient, affordable and durable—(Mr Kevin Hughes):—It was agreed to.

22 Public Petitions,—Public Petitions from

(1) Mrs Helene Atkinson for action to help the release of Mr George Atkinson from imprisonment in Dubai; and

(2) the people of Cornwall for a university college in the county

were presented and read; and ordered to lie upon the Table and to be printed.

23 Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Mr David Clelland);

And the Motion having been made after Ten o'clock on Wednesday evening, and the Debate having continued for half an hour, the Deputy Speaker adjourned the House, without Question put, pursuant to the Standing Order, it being then nine minutes past One o'clock on Thursday morning, till this day.

[Adjourned at 1.09 a.m.

APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

1 Civil Aviation,—(1) Civil Aviation (Air Travel Organisers' Licensing) (Second Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2912), dated 8th December 1997, and

(2) Civil Aviation (Route Charges for Navigation Services) Regulations 1997 (S.I.,1997, No. 2920), dated 9th December 1997

[by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

2 Education,—Education (Particulars of Independent Schools) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2918), dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett].

3 Medical Profession,—European Specialist Medical Qualifications Amendment Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2928), dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dobson].

4 Merchant Shipping,—Merchant Shipping (Master's Discretion) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2886), dated 2nd December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

5 National Health Service,—National Health Service (Pilot Schemes—Health Service Bodies) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2929), dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dobson].

6 Public Passenger Transport,—(1) Community Bus (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2917), and

(2) Minibus and Other Section 19 Permit Buses (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2916),

dated 8th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

7 Rating and Valuation,—Non-Domestic Rating (Rural Settlement) (Wales) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2885), dated 4th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Davies].

8 Road Traffic,—(1) Courses for Drink-Drive Offenders (Designation of Areas) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2913), dated 8th December 1997,

(2) Motor Vehicles (Approval) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2934), dated 10th December 1997,

(3) Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) (No. 5) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2915), dated 8th December 1997,

(4) Motor Vehicles (Type Approval) (Great Britain) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2933), dated 10th December 1997,

(5) Motor Vehicles (Type Approval for Goods Vehicles) (Great Britain) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2936), dated 10th December 1997, and

(6) Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) (No. 6) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2935), dated 10th December 1997

[by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

9 Telecommunications,—(1) Telecommunications (Interconnection) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2931),

(2) Telecommunications (Licensing) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2930), and

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(3) Telecommunications (Open Network Provision and Leased Lines) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2932),

dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

Other Papers:

10 British Library,—Report of the British Library for 1996–97 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith].

11 Criminal Injuries Compensation,—Accounts of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeals Panel for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 422] [Clerk of the House].

12 Home Affairs,—Government Reply to the Second Report from the Home Affairs Committee, Session 1996–97, on the Management of the Prison Service (Public and Private) [by Command] [Cm. 3810] [Mr Secretary Straw].

13 Mental Health,—Paper, entitled Who Decides? Making Decisions on Behalf of Mentally Incapacitated Adults [by Command] [Cm. 3803] [Mr Geoffrey Hoon].

14 Miscellaneous (No. 12, 1997),—Convention, done at Paris on 7th October 1997, between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of the French Republic, and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany concerning Scientific Personnel at the Max von Laue-Paul Langevin Institute [by Command] [Cm. 3821] [Mr Secretary Cook].

15 Northern Ireland,—Report of the Standing Advisory Committee on Human Rights for 1996–97 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 402] [Secretary Marjorie Mowlam].

16 Parliamentary Commissioner,—Third Report of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration, Session 1997–98, Selected Cases 1997—Volume 5 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 412] [Clerk of the House].

17 Treaty Series (No. 73, 1997),—Consolidated Text of the Convention concerning International Carriage by Rail (COTIF), done at Berne on 9th May 1980 [by Command] [Cm. 3812] [Mr Secretary Cook].

APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

1 Wild Mammals (Hunting with Dogs) Bill:

The Committee of Selection has nominated nineteen Members to serve on Standing Committee C in respect of the Bill, viz.: Mr Tony Baldry, Mrs Jackie Ballard, Mr Andrew F. Bennett, Mr Ivor Caplin, Mr Ian Cawsey, Mr Michael Foster, Mr Edward Garnier, Dr Ian Gibson, Mrs Eileen Gordon, Mr James Gray, Mr George Howarth, Mr Eric Illsley, Mr Martyn Jones, Mr Kevin McNamara, Mr Lembit Opik, Mr Owen Paterson, Mr Martin Salter, Angela Smith and Miss Ann Widdecombe.

2 Animal Health (Amendment) Bill:

The Committee of Selection has nominated eighteen Members to serve on Standing Committee C in respect of the Bill, viz.: Mr David Amess, Mrs Jackie Ballard, Mr Martin Caton, Mr David Chaytor, Mr Alan Clark, Mr Edward Davey, Paul Flynn, Mr Norman A. Godman, Mr David Hanson, Lynne Jones, Mr David Maclean, Mr Bill Michie, Dr Nick Palmer, Mr Colin Pickthall, Mr Gordon Prentice, Mr Jeff Rooker, Mr Desmond Swayne and Mr Desmond Turner.

3 Council Tax Benefit (General) Amendment Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 1841):

(1) The Speaker has allocated the Regulations to the Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr Harold Best, Mr Keith Bradley, Mr Simon Burns, Mr Harry Cohen, Mr David Crausby, Mr Andrew Dismore, Mr Eric Forth, Mr Kevin Hughes, Mr David Lepper, Fiona Mactaggart, Mrs Theresa May, Kali Mountford, Mr David Rendel, Mr Gerry Sutcliffe, Mr Nigel Waterson and Steve Webb.

European Standing Committees

4 The unnumbered Explanatory Memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on 8th December 1997, relating to Fisheries: total allowable catches and quotas 1998, has been referred to European Standing Committee A.

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APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1 Defence,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Defence Committee on 10th December [Strategic Defence Review]; to be printed [No. 138–iv] [Mr Bruce George].

2 Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee on 10th December [Regional Development Agencies]; to be printed [No. 415–iii]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Transport Sub-Committee of the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee on 10th December [UK Air Traffic Control]; to be printed [No. 360–ii]

[Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody].

3 European Legislation,—(1) Tenth Report from the Select Committee on European Legislation; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee [No. 155–x]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Select Committee on European Legislation on 10th December [Tobacco advertising]; to be printed [No. 428]

[Mr Jimmy Hood].

4 Northern Ireland Affairs,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee on 10th December [The Composition, Recruitment and Training of the RUC]; to be printed [No. 337–v]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee on 10th December [Electoral Malpractice in Northern Ireland]; to be printed [No. 316–iii]

[Mr Peter Brooke].

5 Public Accounts,—(1) Sixteenth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [HM Customs and Excise: Accounts Matters]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 424];

(2) Seventeenth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Waltham Forest Housing Action Trust: Progress in Regenerating Housing Estates]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 425];

(3) Eighteenth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [The Department of Trade and Industry Redundancy Payments Service: Management and Recovery of Debt], together with a Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 426];

(4) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee of Public Accounts on 10th December [Privatisation of Belfast International Airport]; to be printed [No. 427-i]; and

(5) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee of Public Accounts on 10th December [The Industrial Research and Technology Unit]; to be printed [No. 429-i]

[Mr David Davis].

6 Science and Technology,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Science and Technology Committee on 10th December [The Year 2000 and Computer Compliance]; to be printed [No. 342–ii] [Dr Michael Clark].

7 Scottish Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Scottish Affairs Committee on 10th December [Welfare to Work in Scotland]; to be printed [No. 335–iv] [Mr David Marshall].

8 Social Security,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Social Security Committee on 10th December [Tax and Benefits]; to be printed [No. 423–i] [Mr Archy Kirkwood].

9 Trade and Industry,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Trade and Industry Committee on 10th December [Coal]; to be printed [No. 404–iii] [Mr Martin O'Neill].

THE SPEAKER'S CERTIFICATE

The Speaker certified that the Consolidated Fund Bill is a Money Bill within the meaning of the Parliament Act 1911.

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[No. 87.]
Thursday 11th December 1997.

The House met at half-past Two o'clock.
PRAYERS.

1 Bank of England Bill,—Mr John McWilliam reported from Standing Committee D, That it had gone through the Bank of England Bill, and made Amendments thereunto.

Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee, to be considered to-morrow; and to be printed [Bill 102].

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 432].

2 Northern Ireland Grand Committee,—Mr Peter Atkinson reported from the Northern Ireland Grand Committee, That it had considered the Matter of Public Expenditure in Northern Ireland in 1998–99, referred to it on 26th November, and had directed him to report accordingly to the House.

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 430].

3 Eighth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Roger Gale reported from the Eighth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Firearms (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1997 Compensation Scheme.

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table.

4 Ninth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Dr Michael Clark reported from the Ninth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the Mink Keeping Order 1997.

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table.

5 Welfare of Pigs Bill,—The Order for reading the Welfare of Pigs Bill a second time to-morrow was read and discharged.

Bill to be read a second time on Friday 6th March.

6 Agenda 2000: The New Financial Framework,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Standing Committees), That this House takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to the new financial framework for the European Community; and supports the Government in its policy of achieving enlargement of the European Union while maintaining the Own Resources Ceiling of 1.27 per cent—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

7 Agenda 2000: Reform of the Common Agricultural Policy,—A Motion was made and the Question being proposed, That this House takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to reform of the Common Agricultural Policy; and supports the Government's objective of a market-oriented CAP with less emphasis on production-related agricultural support and more emphasis on targeted environmental and rural objectives—(Mr David Clelland);

An Amendment was proposed to the Question, in line 1 to leave out from the word ‘House' and add the words ‘whilst recognising the need for urgent and radical reform of the CAP, declines to take note of European Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, unless and until the Government gives beef farmers the urgent support they need if there is to be a viable British beef industry in the future', instead thereof.—(Mr Patrick McLoughlin.)

And the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Standing Committees), That the Amendment be made;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Oliver Heald, Mr James Cran: 128.

Tellers for the Noes, Jane Kennedy, Janet Anderson: 258.

So the Question was negatived.

And the Main Question being put forthwith:—It was agreed to.

Resolved, That this House takes note of European Community Document No. 9984/97, Agenda 2000, as it relates to reform of the Common Agricultural Policy; and supports the Government's objective of a market-oriented CAP with less emphasis on production-related agricultural support and more emphasis on targeted environmental and rural objectives.

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8 Environmental Protection,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Air Quality Regulations 1997, which were laid before this House on 11th November, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

9 Road Traffic,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) (Fixed Penalty) Regulations 1997, which were laid before this House on 24th November, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

10 Rating and Valuation,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Non-Domestic Rating (Chargeable Amounts) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 1997, which were laid before this House on 25th November, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

11 Deregulation,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 18 (Consideration of draft deregulation orders), That the draft Deregulation (Licence Transfers) Order 1997, which was laid before this House on 17th November, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

12 Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Bill, not amended in the Standing Committee.

A Clause (Interception of Communications)—(Mr David Trimble)—brought up, and read the first time.

Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time:—Clause, by leave, withdrawn.

Another Clause (Codes of practice: commencement orders)—(Mr David Trimble)—brought up, and read the first and second time, and added to the Bill.

Amendment (No. 1) proposed to the Bill, in page 1, to leave out lines 7 and 8.—(Mr David Trimble.)

Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment by leave, withdrawn.

Another Amendment (No. 2) proposed to the Bill, in page 2, to leave out lines 1 and 2.—(Mr David Trimble.)

Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Another Amendment (No. 6) proposed to the Bill, in page 2, to leave out lines 9 and 10.—(Mr Andrew MacKay.)

Question put, That the Amendment be made.

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr James Cran, Mr Stephen Day: 118.

Tellers for the Noes, Janet Anderson, Jane Kennedy: 223.

Amendments (Nos. 7 and 8) made to the Bill.

The Bill was read the third time, and passed.

13 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Robert Ainsworth.)

And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till seven minutes to Nine o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 8.53 pm

APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1 Northern Ireland,—(1) Draft Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1997, and

(2) Draft Road Traffic (New Drivers) (Northern Ireland) Order 1997

[by Act] [Secretary Marjorie Mowlam].

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Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

2 Civil Aviation,—Civil Aviation (Joint Financing) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2937), dated 10th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

3 Criminal Law (Scotland),—Disqualification from Driving (Prescribed Courts) (Scotland) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2940), dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar].

4 Education,—Education (Student Loans) (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2919), dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett].

5 Local Government,—(1) Local Government Act 1988 (Defined Activities) (Exemption) (Easington District Council, Epping Forest District Council and London Borough of Merton) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2888), and

(2) Local Government Act 1988 (Defined Activities) (Exemption) (Stevenage Borough Council and Three Rivers District Council) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2889),

dated 8th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

6 Restrictive Trade Practices,—(1) Restrictive Trade Practices (Non-notifiable Agreements) (Sale and Purchase, Share Subscription and Franchise Agreements) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2945), and

(2) Restrictive Trade Practices (Non-notifiable Agreements) (Turnover Threshold) Amendment Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2944),

dated 6th December 1997 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

7 Roads and Bridges (Scotland),—(1) Invergarry-Kyle of Lochalsh Trunk Road (A87) Extension (Skye Bridge Crossing) Toll Order (Variation) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2941), and

(2) Removal of Vehicles (Prescribed Charges) (Scotland) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2942),

dated 9th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar].

Other Papers:

8 Cabinet Office Executive Agencies,—Report and Accounts of the Security Facilities Executive for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 91] [Dr David Clark].

9 Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons,—Statements by the Secretary of State for Health and the Secretary of State for Wales on Residential care of Handicapped Persons under the age of 65 in England and Wales for 1996 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 399] [Mr Secretary Dobson].

10 Employment Protection,—Report of the Central Arbitration Committee for 1996 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

11 Freedom of Information,—Paper, entitled Your Right to Know: The Government's proposals for a Freedom of Information Act [by Command] [Cm. 3818] [Dr David Clark].

12 Museums and Galleries,—Account of the National Portrait Gallery for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 431] [Clerk of the House].

13 National Audit,—Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General on The Management of Sickness Absence in the Metropolitan Police Service [by Act]; to be printed [No. 413] [Clerk of the House].

14 Post Office,—Report of the Post Office Users' National Council for 1996–97 and Review by the Post Office Users' National Council of the Post Office for 1996–97 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

15 Science and Technology,—Report and Accounts of the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett].

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APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

1 Council Tax Benefit (General) (Amendment) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 1841),—The Speaker has appointed Mr Joe Benton Chairman of the Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation in respect of the Regulations.

2 Welsh Grand Committee,—The Speaker has appointed Mr Barry Jones Chairman of the Welsh Grand Committee in respect of the Meeting of the Committee on Tuesday 16th December.

APPENDIX III

Select Committees

1 Agriculture,—First Report from the Agriculture Committee [MAFF Intervention Board Departmental Report 1997], together with an Appendix to the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings relating to the Report [No. 310] [Mr Peter Luff].

2 Culture, Media and Sport,—(1) Second Report from the Culture, Media and Sport Committee [The Millennium Dome], together with Appendices to the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings relating to the Report [No. 340]; and

(2) Memoranda laid before the Committee [The Millennium Dome]

[Mr Gerald Kaufman].

3 Defence,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Defence Committee on 11th December 1997 [Strategic Defence Review] [No. 138–v]; to be printed [Mr Bruce George].

4 Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environment Transport and Regional Afffairs Committee on 11th December [Regional Development Agencies]; to be printed [No. 415–iv] [Mr Andrew F. Bennett].

5 Health,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Health Committee on 11th December [Children Looked After By Local Authorities]; to be printed [No 319–iii] [Mr David Hinchliffe].

6 Welsh Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Welsh Affairs Committee on 11th December [The Impact of Devolution on Local Government and Economic Development in Wales]; to be printed [No. 329–viii] [Mr Martyn Jones].

[No. 88.]
Friday 12th December 1997.

The House met at half-past Nine o'clock.
PRAYERS.

1 Mental Health (Amendment) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Mental Health (Amendment) Bill;

A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the Bill be now read a second time;

And it being half-past Two o'clock, the Debate stood adjourned.

Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Friday 16th January.

2 Public Interest Disclosure Bill,—The Public Interest Disclosure Bill was, according to Order, read a second time and stood committed to a Standing Committee.

3 Weights and Measures (Beer and Cider) Bill,—The Weights and Measures (Beer and Cider) Bill was, according to Order, read a second time and stood committed to a Standing Committee.

4 Geneva Conventions (Amendment) Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Geneva Conventions (Amendment) Bill [Lords];

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 20th March.

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5	Reform of Quarantine Regulations Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Reform of Quarantine Regulations Bill;

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

6	Companies (Millennium Computer Compliance) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Companies (Millennium Computer Compliance) Bill;

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

7	Hare Coursing Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Hare Coursing Bill;

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 16th January.

8	Waste Minimisation Bill,—The Waste Minimisation Bill was, according to Order, read a second time and stood committed to a Standing Committee.

9	Public House Names Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Public House Names Bill;

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 13th February.

Harmon (CFEM) Facades (UK) Limited v. The Corporate Officer of the House of Commons,—Resolved, That this House, notwithstanding its right to exclusive cognisance of its proceedings, gives leave, in the action of Harmon (CFEM) Facades (UK) Limited v the Corporate Officer of the House of Commons, for reference to be made to such papers of the Accommodation and Works and Finance and Services Committees in the last Parliament as relate to the fenestration contract for the New Parliamentary Building and which are in the possession of the Corporate Officer in accordance with the duties placed upon him by the Parliamentary Corporate Bodies Act 1992; and that leave be given for the proper Officers of the House to produce the said papers and to attend to give evidence in the trial of the action.—(Mr Jim Dowd.)

11	Fisheries,—Ordered, That the unnumbered Explanatory Memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on 8th December 1997, relating to Fisheries: total allowable catches and quotas 1998, shall not stand referred to European Standing Committee A.—(Mr Jim Dowd.)

Business of the House,—Ordered, That, at the sitting on Wednesday 17th December, notwithstanding Standing Order No. 16 (Proceedings under an Act or on European Community documents), the Speaker shall put the Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on the Motion in the name of the Prime Minister relating to Fisheries not later than Eight o'clock; and that the Order of 5th December be discharged.—(Mr Jim Dowd.)

13	Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Jim Dowd.)

And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till Three o'clock, adjourned till Monday 15th December.

[Adjourned at 3 p.m.

APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

1	Family Law,—Child Support (Written Agreements) (Scotland) Order 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2943), dated 3rd December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar].

2	Social Security,—Social Security Amendment (New Deal) Regulations 1997 (S.I., 1997, No. 2863), dated 11th December 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett].

Other Papers:

3	Industrial Organisation and Development,—Report and Accounts of the Milk Development Council for 1996–97 [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham].

4	Natural Heritage (Scotland),—Accounts of Scottish Natural Heritage for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 433] [Clerk of the House].

5	Supreme Court (Northern Ireland),—Land Purchase Account of the Supreme Court of Judicature, Northern Ireland, for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 434] [Clerk of the House].

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