House of Commons

Session 1997-1998

Commons Journal 254 Chronological Index Alphabetical Index - Part I Alphabetical Index - Part II Previous Next Page 644            1997-1998      Volume 254       [No. 195.] Monday 29th June 1998. The House met at half-past Two o'clock. PRAYERS. 1 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: The Lords have agreed to the Fireworks Bill, with Amendments; to which they desire the concurrence of this House. 2 Opposition Day [15th allotted day],—It being an allotted day at the disposal of the Leader of the Opposition in pursuance of Standing Order No. 14 (Arrangement of public business), the House proceeded to consider opposition business. The Economy,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House notes that the last Government left a golden economic legacy of low inflation, steady and sustainable growth and falling unemployment; that, since the General Election, there have been 17 tax rises and 6 increases in interest rates, leaving the typical family £1,000 a year worse off; that the economy is becoming dangerously unbalanced, with manufacturing in recession, the claimant count rising and the savings ratio falling to its lowest level since 1990 as a result of the Government's attack on pensions and savings; further notes that, at the same time, inflation has risen to its highest level for six years and believes that the Chancellor's decision to abandon control of public spending and to reverse his plans to repay national debt risks adding further inflationary pressure; concludes that the Government has created boom and bust at the same time; and deplores the Government's mishandling of the economy—(Mr Francis Maude); An Amendment was proposed to the Question, in line 2, to leave out from the word ‘House' to the end of the Question and add the words ‘notes that the Government inherited an economy in which the current Budget was in deficit by £21 billion, inflation was set to rise because of the failure of the previous Government to take the necessary action on interest rates and nearly one in five households of working age had nobody working; recalls that the previous Government presided over a boom and bust economy with interest rates peaking at 15 per cent. and the two worst recessions since the war, doubled the national debt in the 1990s, doubled unemployment during its time in office, worsened inequality and failed to tackle the weaknesses in the British economy; commends the actions of the Government in its first year, which has established a credible framework for monetary policy that has led to the lowest long-term interest rates in 33 years, set two clear fiscal rules which provide for both prudent public finance and strong public services in the years ahead, taken action to reduce government borrowing such that the current Budget was in surplus by £1 billion in 1997–98, supported British business through cuts in corporation tax and small business tax to their lowest levels ever, launched the New Deal, the biggest employment programme for decades, reformed the tax and benefit system to tackle the unemployment and poverty traps and invested in education and skills; and notes that Britain now has a government which will ensure that the country does not return to the boom and bust and 15 per cent. interest rates of the late 1980s and early 1990s and instead has an economic policy based on stability, enterprise, employment and fairness', instead thereof.—(Mr Alistair Darling.) And the Question being put, That the original words stand part of the Question; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr John M. Taylor, Mr Tim Collins: 139. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Jon Owen Jones, Jane Kennedy: 310. So the Question was negatived. And the Question, That the proposed words be there added, being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 31 (Questions on amendments):—It was agreed to. The Deputy Speaker forthwith declared the Main Question, as amended, to be agreed to. Resolved, That this House notes that the Government inherited an economy in which the current Budget was in deficit by £21 billion, inflation was set to rise because of the failure of the previous Government to take the necessary action on interest rates and nearly one in five households of working age had nobody working; recalls that the previous Government presided over a boom and bust economy with interest rates peaking at 15 per cent. and the two worst recessions since the war, doubled the national debt in the 1990s, doubled unemployment during its time in office, worsened inequality and failed to tackle the weaknesses in the British economy; commends the actions of the Government in its first year, which has established a credible framework for monetary Page 645      Monday 29th June 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top policy that has led to the lowest long-term interest rates in 33 years, set two clear fiscal rules which provide for both prudent public finance and strong public services in the years ahead, taken action to reduce government borrowing such that the current Budget was in surplus by £1 billion in 1997-98, supported British business through cuts in corporation tax and small business tax to their lowest levels ever, launched the New Deal, the biggest employment programme for decades, reformed the tax and benefit system to tackle the unemployment and poverty traps and invested in education and skills; and notes that Britain now has a government which will ensure that the country does not return to the boom and bust and 15 per cent. interest rates of the late 1980s and early 1990s and instead has an economic policy based on stability, enterprise, employment and fairness. Class Sizes,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House notes that primary class sizes have increased since the Government came to power, and that almost half a million pupils at Key Stage 1 are now in classes of 31 or more; condemns the Government's failure to deliver its early pledge to reduce infant class sizes; believes that while reducing class sizes is a desirable objective, this should not be done at the expense of parental choice or by creating more mixed-age classes; and condemns the Government's inability to implement its pledge in a way consistent with raising educational standards—(Mr David Willetts); An Amendment was proposed to the Question, in line 1, to leave out from the word ‘House' to the end of the Question and add the words ‘congratulates the Government on the excellent progress it has already made towards honouring its pledge that no child of 5, 6 or 7 will be in a class of over 30 by the end of this Parliament, which will mean that 100,000 fewer infants will be in large classes from this September and the pledge will be met ahead of schedule by September 2001; and notes the Opposition's continuing hostility to class size reduction, having presided over year-on-year increases since 1988', instead thereof.—(Mr Stephen Byers.) And the Question being put, That the original words stand part of the Question; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr John M. Taylor, Mr Tim Collins: 134. Tellers for the Noes, Mr John McFall, Mr Clive Betts: 297. So the Question was negatived. And the Question, That the proposed words be there added, being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 31 (Questions on amendments):—It was agreed to. The Speaker forthwith declared the Main Question, as amended, to be agreed to. Resolved, That this House congratulates the Government on the excellent progress it has already made towards honouring its pledge that no child of 5, 6 or 7 will be in a class of over 30 by the end of this Parliament, which will mean that 100,000 fewer infants will be in large classes from this September and the pledge will be met ahead of schedule by September 2001; and notes the Opposition's continuing hostility to class size reduction, having presided over year-on-year increases since 1988. 3 Animals,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Welfare of Livestock (Amendment) Regulations 1998, which were laid before this House on 21st May, be approved—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to. 4 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 draft Producer Responsibility Obligations (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, which was laid before this House on 1st June, be approved—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to. 5 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 (Reduced Rate) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1375), dated 3rd June 1998, which was laid before this House on 3rd June, be approved—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to. 6 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 draft Child Benefit and Social Security (Fixing and Adjustment of Rates) (Amendment) Regulations 1998, which were laid before this House on 8th June, be approved—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to. 7 Public Health,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Vaccine Damage Payments Act 1979 Statutory Sum Order 1998, which was laid before this House on 8th June, be approved—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to. Page 646      Monday 29th June 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 8 Civil Aviation,—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 Carrier Liability Order 1998, which was laid before this House on 23rd June, be approved—(Janet Anderson):—It was agreed to. 9 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Janet Anderson.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till sixteen minutes to Eleven o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 10.44 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers delivered to the Votes and Proceedings Office on Friday 26th June 1998 (Non-sitting Friday, S.O. No. 12) pursuant to Standing Order No. 158 (Presentation of command papers): 1 Hong Kong (No. 3, 1998),—Agreement, done at Hong Kong on 25th July 1997, between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China concerning Air Services, with an Explanatory Memorandum [Cm. 3996] [Mr Secretary Cook]. 2 Miscellaneous (No. 5, 1998),—Terms of Reference of the International Copper Study Group, done at New York on 24th February 1989, with an Explanatory Memorandum [Cm. 3993] [Mr Secretary Cook]. 3 Treaty Series (No. 25, 1998),—Agreement, done at Kampala on 10th December 1993, between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of the Republic of Uganda concerning Air Services [Cm. 3985] [Mr Secretary Cook]. Papers delivered to the Votes and Proceedings Office on Friday 26th June 1998 (Non-sitting Friday, S.O. No. 12) pursuant to Standing Order No. 159 (Presentation of statutory instruments): Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 4 Dentists,—Dentists Act 1984 (Amendment) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1546), dated 23rd June 1998 [Mr Secretary Dobson]. Papers presented or laid upon the Table on Monday 29th June 1998: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 5 Deregulation,—Draft Deregulation (Exchangeable Driving Licences) Order 1998, together with a statement by the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 6 Education,—Education (School Performance Targets) (England) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1532), dated 29th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett]. 7 Medical Profession,—Human Organ Transplants (Establishment of Relationship) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1428), dated 8th June [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dobson]. 8 Merchant Shipping,—Merchant Shipping (International Safety Management (ISM) Code) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1561), dated 24th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. 9 Prisons,—Prison (Amendment) (No. 2) Rules 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1544), dated 20th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Straw]. 10 Telegraphs,—Wireless Telegraphy (Licence Charges) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1567), dated 28th June 1998 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett]. 11 Young Offender Institutions,—Young Offender Institution (Amendment) Rules 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1545), dated 20th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Straw]. Other Papers: 12 Broadcasting,—Report, Financial Statements and Annual Review of the Broadcasting Standards Commission for 1997–98, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith]. Page 647      Monday 29th June 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 13 Courts and Legal Services,—Report of the Legal Services Ombudsman for 1997 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 793] [Mr Geoffrey Hoon]. 14 Fair Trading,—Report of the Director General of Fair Trading: Office of Fair Trading for 1997 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 762] [Secretary Margaret Beckett]. 15 Industrial Training,—Report and Accounts of the Construction Industry Training Board for 1997 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett]. 16 Police,—Report of the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis for 1997–98 [by Command] [Mr Secretary Straw]. 17 Telecommunications,—Amendments to the Convention and the Operating Agreement relating to the International Mobile Satellite Organisation (Inmarsat) [by Command] [Cm. 3995] [Secretary Margaret Beckett]. APPENDIX II Standing Committees Draft Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998,—The Committee of Selection has discharged from the Tenth Standing Committee Mr Alan Williams (nominated in respect of the draft Order); and nominated in substitution Mr Alan Simpson. [No. 196.] Tuesday 30th June 1998. The House met at half-past Two o'clock. PRAYERS. 1 Future of Lyric Theatre in London (Eyre Review),—Resolved, That an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty, That she will be graciously pleased to give directions that there will be laid before this House a Return of the Report of the inquiry of the future of lyric theatre in London by Sir Richard Eyre.—(Bridget Prentice.) 2 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: The Lords have agreed to the Public Interest Disclosure Bill, without Amendment. The Lords have agreed to the Pesticides Bill, with an Amendment, to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House. 3 Fireworks Bill,—Lords Amendments to the Fireworks Bill to be considered on Friday and to be printed [Bill 216]. 4 Pesticides Bill,—Lords Amendment to the Pesticides Bill to be considered on Friday and to be printed [Bill 217]. 5 Unsolicited Facsimile Messages,—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to prohibit the sending of facsimile messages offering for sale goods or services or seeking answers by questionnaire without prior permission of the recipient: And that Mr Christopher Fraser, Mr David Atkinson, Mrs Angela Browning, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Mr James Gray, Mr Dominic Grieve, Mrs Eleanor Laing, Dr Julian Lewis, Mr Owen Paterson, Mr David Ruffley, Mr Desmond Swayne and Mr Robert Walter do prepare and bring it in. 6 Unsolicited Facsimile Messages Bill,—Mr Christopher Fraser accordingly presented a Bill to prohibit the sending of facsimile messages offering for sale goods or services or seeking answers by questionnaire without prior permission of the recipient: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday and to be printed [Bill 215]. 7 Finance (No. 2) Bill [Ways and Means],—Stamp duty reserve tax (exchange of securities),—Resolved, That provision may be made in the Finance (No. 2) Bill for and in connection with restricting relief under sections 95(3) and 97(4) of the Finance Act 1986.—(Mr Robert Ainsworth.) 8 Finance (No. 2) Bill [Ways and Means],—Capital Allowances,—Resolved, That provision may be made in the Finance (No. 2) Bill— Page 648      Tuesday 30th June 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top (a) amending section 22A of the Capital Allowances Act 1990; and (b) repealing section 76(3) of that Act.—(Mr Robert Ainsworth.) 9 Finance (No. 2) Bill (Consideration),—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Finance (No. 2) Bill, not amended in the Committee and as amended in the Standing Committee. A Clause (Depository receipts and clearance services: exchanges of shares)—(Mr Geoffrey Robinson)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill. Another Clause (First-year allowances for investment in Northern Ireland)— (Mr Geoffrey Robinson)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill. Another Clause (First-year allowances: consequential amendments etc.)— (Mr Geoffrey Robinson)—brought up, read the first and second time and added to the Bill. A Clause (Repayment of dividend tax credit to non-taxpayers)—(Mr Michael Fallon)—brought up, and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Sir David Madel, Mr Stephen Day: 171. Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Jim Dowd: 284. Another Clause (Special regard to trading patterns of the retail industry)— (Mr David Heathcoat-Amory)—brought up, and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Sir David Madel, Mrs Caroline Spelman: 175. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Jim Dowd, Mr David Jamieson: 276. Another Clause (Definition of national debt)—(Mr David Heathcoat-Amory)—brought up, and read the first time. Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time:—Clause, by leave, withdrawn. Another Clause—(Stamp duty on transfers of land to dealers in or developers of land)—(Mr John Whittingdale)—brought up, and read the first time. Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time:—Clause, by leave withdrawn. Another Clause (Amount of inheritance tax charged in heritage chattels which do not meet the amended higher threshold test)—(Mr Shaun Woodward)—brought up, and read the first time. Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time:—Clause, by leave, withdrawn. Another Clause (Tax credit compensation for charities with investments in mixed funds)—(Mr Michael Fallon)—brought up, and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Sir David Madel, Mrs Caroline Spelman: 171. Tellers for the Noes, Jane Kennedy, Mr Jon Owen Jones: 279. Another Clause (Capital allowances for sea going vessels)—(Mr John Burnett)—brought up, and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Andrew Stunell, Mr Donald Gorrie: 37. Tellers for the Noes, Jane Kennedy, Mr Jon Owen Jones: 272. Ordered, That further consideration of the Bill be now adjourned.—(Mr Robert Ainsworth.) Bill to be further considered to-morrow. Page 649      Tuesday 30th June 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 10 Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Robert Ainsworth.) And the Motion having been made after Ten o'clock, 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 seven minutes to Twelve o'clock, till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 11.53 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 Roads and Bridges (Scotland),—Draft Security for Private Road Works (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 2 Local Government,—Local Authorities (Goods and Services) (Public Bodies) (No. 4) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1574), dated 25th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. 3 National Health Service,—(1) Special Health Authorities (Amendment) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1576), and (2) Special Health Authorities (Establishment and Constitution Orders) Amendment Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1577), dated 29th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dobson]. 4 Social Security,—Social Security Amendment (Personal Allowances for Children) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1541), dated 24th June 1998 [by Act] [Secretary Harriet Harman]. 5 Telecommunications,—Telecommunications (Open Network Provision) (Voice Telephony) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1580), dated 28th June 1998 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett]. Other Papers: 6 Financial Services,—Report and Accounts of the Financial Services Authority for 1997–98 [by Act] [Dawn Primarolo]. 7 Future of lyric theatre in London (Eyre Review),—Return to an Address to Her Majesty this day for a Return of the Report of an inquiry by Sir Richard Eyre CBE on the future of lyric theatre in London; to be printed [No. 858] [Mr Secretary Smith]. 8 Government Trading Funds,—Report and Accounts of the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency for 1997–98, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 883] [Clerk of the House]. 9 Trade Union and Labour Relations,—Reports of the Commissioner for the Rights of Trade Union Members and for Protection against Unlawful Industrial Action for 1997–98 [by Act] [Secretary Margaret Beckett]. APPENDIX II Reports from Select Committees 1 Agriculture,—(1) Fourth Special Report from the Agriculture Committee [Government Observations on the Fourth Report from the Committee, on Food Safety]; to be printed [No. 889]; (2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee on 30th June [CAP reform: rural development]; to be printed [No. 890-i]; and (3) Memoranda laid before the Committee [Flood and coastal defence; CAP reform; rural development] [Mr Peter Luff]. 2 Deregulation,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Deregulation Committee on 30th June [The Deregulation Order-Making Process]; to be printed [No. 709-ii] [Mr Peter L. Pike]. Page 650      Tuesday 30th June 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 3 Education and Employment,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Education and Employment Committee on 30th June [DfEE's expenditure plans 1998–99]; to be printed [No. 897-i] [Ms Margaret Hodge]. 4 Environmental Audit,—(1) Second Report from the Environmental Audit Committee [The Greening Government Initiative], together with Appendices to the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 517]; and (2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee on 30th June [Climate Change]; to be printed [No. 899] [Mr John Horam]. 5 Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environment Sub-Committee of the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee on 30th June [DETR Annual Report 1998 and Expenditure Plans 1998–99]; to be printed [No. 844-ii]; and (2) Memoranda laid before the Environment Sub-Committee [Implentation of the Best Value Framework]; to be printed [No. 705-II] [Mr Andrew F. Bennett]. 6 Foreign Affairs,—Part of the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Foreign Affairs Committee on 30th June [The Public Expenditure Plans of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, 1998–99]; to be printed [No. 745-iv] [Mr Donald Anderson]. 7 Home Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Home Affairs Committee on 30th June [Confidentiality of Police Settlements of Civil Claims]; to be printed [No. 894-i] [Mr Chris Mullin]. 8 International Development,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the International Development Committee on 30th June [Conflict Prevention and Post-Conflict Reconstruction]; to be printed [No. 787-iv] [Mr Bowen Wells]. 9 Statutory Instruments,—Thirty-ninth Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, together with Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be printed [No. 33-xxxix] [Mr David Tredinnick]. 10 Trade and Industry,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Trade and Industry Committee on 30th June [Industrial and Trade Relations with Central Europe]; to be printed [No. 893-i] [Mr Martin O'Neill]. 11 Welsh Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Welsh Affairs Committee on 30th June [Investment in Industry in Wales]; to be printed [No. 821-iii] [Mr Martyn Jones]. [No. 197.] Wednesday 1st July 1998. 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—(Mr Jim Dowd); And it being Two o'clock, the Motion for the adjournment of the House lapsed, without Question put, pursuant to the Standing Order. 2 Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Frank Cook reported from the Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Export and Investment Guarantees (Limit on Foreign Currency Commitments) Order 1998. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 3 Access to the Countryside Bill,—The Order for reading the Access to the Countryside Bill a second time on Friday 3rd July was read and discharged. Bill withdrawn. 4 Co-ordinated Universal Time Bill [Lords],—The Order for reading the Co-ordinated Universal Time Bill [Lords] a second time on Friday 3rd July was read and discharged. Page 651      Wednesday 1st July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 5 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: The Lords have agreed to the Road Traffic Reduction (National Targets) Bill, without Amendment. 6 Local Government (Consultation with Young People),—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to give local authorities powers to consult with minors on the provision of, and budgetary strategies for, services designed to benefit minors: And that Dr Ashok Kumar, Fiona Mactaggart, Mr Lindsay Hoyle, Mr Alan Campbell, Dr Ian Gibson, Ms Jackie Lawrence, Dr Phyllis Starkey, Mr Barry Sheerman, Mr David Chidgey, Mr Peter Luff, Mr David Prior and Mr Andrew Rowe do prepare and bring it in. 7 Local Government (Consultation with Young People) Bill,—Dr Ashok Kumar accordingly presented a Bill to give local authorities powers to consult with minors on the provision of, and budgetary strategies for, services designed to benefit minors: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 3rd July and to be printed [Bill 218]. 8 Finance (No. 2) Bill,—Ordered, That, notwithstanding the practice of the House as to the intervals between stages of Bills brought in upon Ways and Means Resolutions, more than one stage of the Finance (No. 2) Bill may be taken at any sitting of the House.—(Mr David Jamieson.) 9 Finance (No. 2) Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded further to consider the Finance (No. 2) Bill, not amended in the Committee and as amended in the Standing Committee. Amendment (No. 48) proposed to the Bill, in page 3, line 43, to leave out ‘£0.4499' and insert ‘£0.4358', instead thereof.—(Mr David Heathcoat-Amory.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Amendments (Nos. 19, 1 to 3, 15, 4, 5, 20 to 24, 9 to 13, 25 and 26) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 42) proposed to the Bill, in page 108, line 40, at the end, to insert the words— ‘(4A) The total amount of taper relief which can be claimed in accordance with this section by any one taxpayer in any one tax year shall be limited to £5 million.'.—(Mr Malcolm Bruce.) Question, That the Amendment be made, put and negatived. Other Amendments (Nos. 61 to 64, 6 to 8, 16 to 18, 29 to 41, 14, 27, 28 and 40) made to the Bill. A Motion was made, and the Question being put, That the Bill be now read the third time; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr John McFall, Mr Greg Pope: 308. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Nigel Waterson, Mr Stephen Day: 171. So the Question was agreed to. The Bill was accordingly read the third time, and passed. 10 Teaching and Higher Education Bill [Lords],—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Lords Amendment in lieu of a Commons Amendment and the Lords Reason for disagreeing to a Commons Amendment to the Teaching and Higher Education Bill [Lords]. A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House insists on its Amendment in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, to which the Lords have disagreed and disagrees to the Amendment proposed by the Lords in lieu of that Amendment—(Mr Brian Wilson); And it being Ten o'clock, the Debate stood adjourned. 11 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 Lords proposals relating to the Teaching and Higher Education Bill [Lords] may be proceeded with, though opposed, until any hour—(Mr David Jamieson):—It was agreed to. 12 Teaching and Higher Education Bill [Lords],—The House again proceeded to consider the Lords proposals relating to the Teaching and Higher Education Bill [Lords]. Page 652      Wednesday 1st July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top Question again proposed, That this House insists on its Amendment in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, to which the Lords have disagreed and disagrees to the Amendment proposed by the Lords in lieu of that Amendment. Question put. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Jim Dowd, Mr Robert Ainsworth: 327. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Stephen Day, Mr Nigel Waterson: 183. A Motion was made, and the Question being put, That this House insists on its Amendment in page 22, to leave out lines 31 to 39, to which the Lords have disagreed—(Mr Brian Wilson); The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Robert Ainsworth, Mr Jim Dowd: 325. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Stephen Day, Mr Nigel Waterson: 185. A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That a Committee be appointed to draw up Reasons to be assigned to the Lords for disagreeing to the Amendment proposed by the Lords in lieu of the Amendment in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, and insisting on the Amendments in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, and page 22, to leave out lines 31 to 39. That Mr Damian Green, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Tony McNulty, Mr Phil Willis and Mr Brian Wilson be members of the Committee. That Mr Brian Wilson be the Chairman of the Committee. That three be the quorum of the Committee. That the Committee do withdraw immediately—(Mr David Jamieson); Mr Nicholas Brown rose in his place, and claimed to move, That the Question be now put. Question put, That the Question be now put. The House proceeded to a Division. Thursday 2nd July 1998. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Jim Dowd, Mr Robert Ainsworth: 269. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Eric Forth, Mr David Wilshire: 11. So the Question was agreed to. And the Question being accordingly put; Ordered, That a Committee be appointed to draw up Reasons to be assigned to the Lords for disagreeing to the Amendment proposed by the Lords in lieu of the Amendment in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, and insisting on the Amendments in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, and page 22, to leave out lines 31 to 39. Ordered, That Mr Damian Green, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Tony McNulty, Mr Phil Willis and Mr Brian Wilson be members of the Committee. Ordered, That Mr Brian Wilson be the Chairman of the Committee. Ordered, That three be the quorum of the Committee. Ordered, That the Committee do withdraw immediately. 13 Estimates,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 145 (Liaison Committee), That this House agrees to the report [25th June] of the Liaison Committee—(Mr Greg Pope):—It was agreed to. 14 Teaching and Higher Education Bill [Lords],—Mr Brian Wilson reported from the Committee appointed to draw up Reasons to be assigned to the Lords for disagreeing to the Amendment proposed by the Lords in lieu of the Commons Amendment in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, and insisting on the Commons Amendments in page 14, to leave out lines 31 to 49, and page 22, to leave out lines 31 to 39, That it had drawn up the following Reason, which it had directed him to report to the House. Because the said Lords Amendment and the disagreements by the Lords to the Commons Amendments involve charges on public funds, and the Commons do not offer any further Reason, trusting that this Reason may be deemed sufficient. Page 653      Wednesday 1st July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top The Reason was agreed to. Message to the Lords to communicate the said Reason, with the Bill and Amendments. 15 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Greg Pope.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till twenty-three minutes to One o'clock on Thursday morning, adjourned till this day. [Adjourned at 12.37 a.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 International Monetary Fund,—Draft International Monetary Fund (Increase in Subscription) Order 1998 [by Act] [Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer]. 2 Public Health,—Food Protection (Emergency Prohibitions) (Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning) (No. 2) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1582), dated 29th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 3 Education,—(1) Education (Assisted Places) (Incidental Expenses) (Amendment) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1585), dated 25th June 1998, (2) Education (Grants) (Music, Ballet and Choir Schools) (Amendment) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1583), dated 25th June 1998, and (3) Education (Teachers) (Amendment) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1584), dated 29th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett]. 4 Health and Safety,—Genetically Modified Organisms (Contained Use) (Amendment) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1548), dated 23rd June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. 5 Local Government,—Local Government Act 1988 (Defined Activities) (Exemptions) (London Fire and Civil Defence Authority) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1528), dated 22nd June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. Other Papers: 6 Export Controls,—Paper, entitled Strategic Export Controls [by Command] [Cm. 3989] [Secretary Margaret Beckett]. 7 Prisons,—Report of the Prisons Ombudsman for 1997 [by Command] [Cm. 3984] [Mr Secretary Straw]. 8 Statutory Instruments (Notification),—Communication declaring that the undermentioned Statutory Instrument had come into operation before copies were laid before Parliament, and explaining why such copies had not been so laid before the Instrument came into operation: Food Protection (Emergency Prohibitions) (Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning) (No. 2) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1582) [by Standing Order] [The Speaker]. 9 Treaty Series (No. 26, 1998),—Convention, done at London on 29th January 1997, between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income and Capital Gains [by Command] [Cm. 3991] [Mr Secretary Cook]. Page 654      Wednesday 1st July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top APPENDIX II Grand Committees 1 The Speaker has appointed— (1) Mrs Ray Michie Chairman of the Scottish Grand Committee in respect of its meeting in Edinburgh on Monday 6th July; and (2) Mr Barry Jones Chairman of the Welsh Grand Committee in respect of its meeting in Merthyr Tydfil on Monday 13th July. European Standing Committees 1 European Standing Committee B,—The Committee of Selection has discharged from European Standing Committee B Mr Philip Hammond and Mr Tony McNulty; and nominated in substitution Miss Geraldine Smith and Mr Robert Walter. 2 European Community Document No. COM(98)300, relating to the 1999 Preliminary Draft Budget, has been referred to European Standing Committee B together with SEC(98)800 already referred. 3 The Speaker has appointed Mr Edward O'Hara Chairman of European Standing Committee B in respect of European Community Documents Nos. SEC(98)800 and COM(98)300, relating to the 1999 Preliminary Draft Budget. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Defence,—(1) Fifth Report from the Defence Committee [The Reserves Call out Order 1998, Etc], together with Appendices to the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 868]; (2) Sixth Report from the Defence Committee [The Defence Evaluation and Research Agency], together with Appendices to the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 621]; and (3) Third Special Report from the Defence Committee [Government responses to the Third and Second Reports from the Committee: NATO Enlargement; The Visiting Forces and International Headquarters (Application of Law) (Amendment) Order 1998]; to be printed [No. 903] [Mr Bruce George]. 2 Education and Employment,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Education Sub-Committee of the Education and Employment Committee on 1st July [The Role of Headteachers]; to be printed [No. 725-vi] [Ms Margaret Hodge]. 3 Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Transport Sub-Committee of the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee on 1st July [DETR Annual Report 1998 and Expenditure Plans 1998–99]; to be printed [No. 844-iii] [Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody]. 4 European Legislation,—Thirty-second Report from the Select Committee on European Legislation; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 155-xxxii] [Mr Jim Marshall]. 5 Health,—Second Report from the Health Committee [Children Looked after by Local Authorities], together with an Annex and Appendices to the Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 319] [Mr David Hinchliffe]. 6 Public Accounts,—(1) Fifty-third Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Appropriation Accounts 1996–97: Class V, Vote 7: Passenger Rail Services]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 625]; (2) Fifty-fourth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Appropriation Accounts 1996–97: Class XVI Vote 3: HM Customs and Excise]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 717]; (3) Fifty-fifth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Inland Revenue: The Monitoring and Control of Tax Exemptions for Charities]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 728]; Page 655      Wednesday 1st July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top (4) Fifty-sixth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Department for Education and Employment: Overpayments to Training and Enterprise Councils]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 704]; and (5) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee of Public Accounts on 1st July [Obtaining a Benefit for Electricity Customers from the floatation of the National Grid]; to be printed [No. 902-i] [Mr David Davis]. 7 Science and Technology,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Science and Technology Committee on 1st July [British Biotech]; to be printed [No. 888-i] [Dr Michael Clark]. 8 Scottish Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Scottish Affairs Committee on 1st July [The Operation of Multi Layer Democracy]; to be printed [No. 460-iv] [Mr David Marshall]. 9 Social Security,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Social Security Committee on 1st July [Pension Sharing on Divorce]; to be printed [No. 869-ii] [Mr Archy Kirkwood]. 10 Trade and Industry,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Trade and Industry Committee on 1st July [Georgian Nuclear Material at Dounreay]; to be printed [No. 815-ii and -iii] [Mr Martin O'Neill]. [No. 198.] Thursday 2nd July 1998. The House met at half-past Two o'clock. PRAYERS. 1 Lloyds TSB Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the third reading of the Lloyds TSB Bill [Lords]; Ordered, That the Bill be read the third time on Thursday 9th July. 2 Northern Ireland Grand Committee,—Mr Peter Atkinson reported from the Northern Ireland Grand Committee, That it had considered the draft Appropriation (No. 2) (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, referred to it on 17th June, and had directed him to report accordingly to the House. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 430]. 3 Tenth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody reported from the Tenth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 4 Wild Mammals (Hunting with Dogs) Bill,—The Order for further considering the Wild Mammals (Hunting with Dogs) Bill to-morrow was read and discharged. Bill withdrawn. 5 Royal Assent,—The Speaker notified the House in accordance with the Royal Assent Act 1967, That Her Majesty had signified Her Royal Assent to the following Acts, agreed upon by both Houses, and to the following Measure passed under the provisions of the Church of England (Powers) Act 1919: National Lottery Act 1998 Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 Road Traffic Reduction (National Targets) Act 1998 National Institutions Measure 1998. 6 Human Rights Bill [Lords] (Committee) [4th allotted day],—The House, according to Order, again resolved itself into a Committee on the Human Rights Bill [Lords]. Page 656      Thursday 2nd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top (In the Committee) A Clause (Freedom of thought, conscience and religion)—(Mr Secretary Straw)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added. Another Clause (Freedom of expression)—(Mr Secretary Straw)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added. A Clause (Guarantee of non-discrimination)—(Mr Robert Maclennan)—brought up, and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Andrew Stunell, Mr David Heath: 18. Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Clelland, Mr Robert Ainsworth: 234. Schedule No. 1 (The Articles). Amendment (No. 112) made. Schedule, as amended, agreed to. Schedule No. 2 agreed to. Schedule No. 3 (Judicial Pensions). Question proposed, That the Schedule be the Third Schedule to the Bill. And it being three hours after commencement of proceedings on the Bill this day the Chairman, pursuant to Orders [1st and 17th June], put forthwith the Questions necessary for the disposal of proceedings in the Committee. Schedule agreed to. A Schedule (Remedial Orders)—(Mr John McFall)—brought up, and added. Bill, as amended, to be reported. The Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair and Mr John McFall reported, That the Committee had gone through the Bill, and made Amendments thereunto. Ordered, That the Bill, as amended in the Committee, be considered to-morrow and be printed [Bill 219]. 7 Data Protection Bill [Lords],—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Data Protection Bill [Lords], as amended in the Standing Committee. Amendments (Nos. 19 to 29, 70, 30 and 71 to 78) made to the Bill. Amendment (No. 13) proposed to the Bill, in page 17, line 43, at the end, to insert the words— ‘(13) The relevant Commissioner may— (a) investigate any procedure which relates to— (i) the processing of personal data for the purpose of safeguarding national security, (ii) the application of an exemption which is required for the purpose of safeguarding national security, or (iii) the signing of a certificate under this section, (b) make any recommendation which relates to— (i) an investigation under paragraph (a) of this subsection, or (ii) safeguarding the interests of data subjects, and (c) if appropriate— (i) raise any matter which relates to an investigation in an annual report, or in any other report to the Prime Minister, or (ii) liaise with the Data Protection Commissioner or another relevant Commissioner on matters which relate to an investigation. (14) The Data Protection Commissioner may raise with a relevant Commissioner any matter which relates to the processing of personal data for the purpose of safeguarding national security. (15) In this section, the “relevant Commissioner” means the Commissioner appointed by virtue of— Page 657      Thursday 2nd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top (a) section 4 of the Security Service Act 1989, (b) section 8 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994, (c) section 91 of the Police Act 1997, or (d) section 8 of the Interception of Communications Act 1985.'.—(Mr Harry Cohen.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Another Amendment (No. 8) proposed to the Bill, in page 17, line 45, after the word ‘prevention' to insert the word ‘investigation'.—(Mr John Greenway.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Another Amendment (No. 9) proposed, in page 18, line 1, after the word ‘offenders' to insert the words— ‘(ba) the safeguarding of public security,'.—(Mr John Greenway.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Amendments (Nos. 83, 84, 31 and 32) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 4) proposed to the Bill, in page 22, line 30, at the end, to insert the words— ‘(2) The Secretary of State may by order, where personal data are held on a public register, lay down conditions which shall be complied with by any person who has access to the register. (3) An order under this section may make specific provisions with respect to a particular public register.'.—(Mr Harry Cohen.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Amendments (Nos. 33 to 38) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 15) proposed to the Bill, in page 24, line 28, at the end, to insert the words— ‘(7A) The Commissioner shall maintain a register containing— (a) a copy of every enforcement notice issued under this section; (b) such other particulars relating to such notices as the Secretary of State may by order prescribe. (7B) The provisions of sections 19(6) and (7) shall apply in relation to the register maintained under this section as they do in relation to the register maintained under section 19(1).'.—(Mr Richard Shepherd.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Other Amendments (Nos. 39 to 46, 79, 85 to 87, 47, 88 to 90, 48, 49, 91 and 50) made to the Bill. A Schedule (Meaning of “educational record”)—(Mr Geoffrey Hoon)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill. Other Amendments (Nos. 51 to 53) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 14) proposed to the Bill, in page 48, line 40, at the end, to insert the words— ‘9A. The data controller must take reasonable steps to ensure that any computer system used in processing the personal data is capable of dealing accurately with dates later than 31st December 1999.'.—(Mr David Atkinson.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Another Amendment (No. 54) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 10) proposed to the Bill, in page 51, line 7, at the end, to insert the words— ‘4A. The information contained in the personal data has been obtained by the canvassing of data subjects by registered political parties.'.—(Mr John Greenway.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Page 658      Thursday 2nd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top Other Amendments (Nos. 55 to 60, 80 and 81) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 7) proposed to the Bill, in page 65, line 9, at the end, to add the words— ‘Part V Change to the Definition of Relevant Filing System after 23rd October 2007 20. The definition of relevant filing system in section 1(1) of this Act shall be modified so that the definition ends after the third occurrence of the word “individuals”. 21. Paragraph 20 shall have effect after 23rd October 2007.'.—(Mr Harry Cohen.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Other Amendments (Nos. 61 to 67, 82, 68 and 69) made to the Bill. A Motion being made, That the Bill be now read the third time; Mr Secretary Dobson, by Her Majesty's Command, acquainted the House, That Her Majesty, having being informed of the purport of the Bill, gives her Consent, as far as Her Majesty's interest is concerned, That the House may do therein as it shall think fit. Mr Secretary Dobson, by Command of the Prince of Wales, acquainted the House, That His Royal Highness, having being informed of the purport of the Bill, gives his Consent, as far as the Prince of Wales's interest is concerned, That the House may do therein as it shall think fit. And the Question being put:—It was agreed to. The Bill was accordingly read the third time, and passed, with Amendments. 8 Non-sitting Fridays,—Ordered, That the Order of 19th May 1997 relating to Non-sitting Fridays be amended by leaving out ‘and 10th July'.—(Mr Robert Ainsworth.) 9 Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Mr Robert Ainsworth); And it being Ten o'clock, the Motion for the Adjournment of the House lapsed, without Question put. 10 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Janet Anderson.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till half-past Ten o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 10.30 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 Immigration,—Draft Special Immigration Appeals Commission (Procedure) Rules 1998 [by Act] [Mr Geoffrey Hoon]. 2 Social Security,—Draft Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers' Compensation) (Payment of Claims) Amendment Regulations 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 3 Harbours,—Larne Harbour Order (Northern Ireland) 1998 (S.R.(N.I.), 1998, No. 221), dated 17th June 1998 [by Act] [Secretary Marjorie Mowlam]. 4 Local Government,—Local Government Reorganisation (Wales) (Repeal of Enactments) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1562), dated 24th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Davies]. 5 Sports Grounds and Sporting Events,—Football Spectators (Seating) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1599), dated 30th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith]. Other Papers: 6 National Health Service (Scotland),—Report and Accounts of the Scottish Hospital Trust for 1997–98 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 780] [Mr Secretary Dewar]. Page 659      Thursday 2nd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 7 Pensions,—Accounts of the Occupational Pensions Regulatory Authority for 1997–98, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 908] [Clerk of the House]. APPENDIX II Reports from Select Committees 1 Education and Employment,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Employment Sub-Committee of the Education and Employment Committee on 2nd July [The Performance and future role of the Employment Service]; to be printed [No. 904-i] [Mr Derek Foster]. 2 European Legislation,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Select Committee on European Legislation on 31st March [European Court of Auditors]; to be printed [No. 909] [Mr Jimmy Hood]. 3 Foreign Affairs,—Minutes of Proceedings of the Foreign Affairs Committee on 30th June [Mr Donald Anderson]. 4 Treasury,—(1) Sixth Special Report from the Treasury Committee [The Government's Response to the Committee's Fifth Report, on The UK and Preparations for Stage Three Economic and Monetary Union] [No. 905]; and (2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee on 2nd July [Financial Services Authority]; to be printed [No. 712-iv] [Mr Giles Radice]. THE SPEAKER'S CERTIFICATE   The Speaker certified that the Finance (No. 2) Bill is a Money Bill within the meaning of the Parliament Act 1911. [No. 199.] Friday 3rd July 1998. The House met at half-past Nine o'clock PRAYERS. 1 Landmines Bill,—Mr Secretary Cook, supported by the Prime Minister, Mr Secretary Prescott, Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr Secretary Robertson, Secretary Clare Short, Mr Tony Lloyd and Dr John Reid, presented a Bill to promote the control of anti-personnel landmines; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Monday 6th July and to be printed [Bill 220]. 2 Fireworks Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Lords Amendments to the Fireworks Bill. Lords Amendment No. 1. A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House agrees with the Lords in the said Amendment—(Mrs Linda Gilroy); And it being Eleven o'clock, the Speaker interrupted the proceedings pursuant to Standing Order No. 11 (Friday sittings). The Question was again proposed, That this House agrees with the Lords in the said Amendment; And the Question being put; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Angela Smith, Mr Richard Burden: 49. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Edward Leigh, Mr Eric Forth: 2. The Lords Amendment was accordingly agreed to. Lords Amendments Nos. 2 to 4 agreed to. Lords Amendment No. 5. Page 660      Friday 3rd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top A Motion was made and the Question being put, That this House agrees with the Lords in the said Amendment—(Mrs Linda Gilroy); The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Angela Smith, Mr Patrick Hall: 50. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Eric Forth, Mr Edward Leigh: 0. The Lords Amendment was accordingly agreed to. Lords Amendment No. 6. A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House agrees with the Lords in the said Amendment—(Mrs Linda Gilroy); And it being half-past Two o'clock, the Debate stood adjourned. Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Monday 6th July. 3 Pesticides Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Lords Amendment to the Pesticides Bill. The Lords Amendment was agreed to. 4 Waste Minimisation Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Question proposed on 24th April, That the Waste Minimisation Bill be now read the third time. The Bill was read the third time, and passed. 5 Energy Conservation (Housing) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Third Reading of the Energy Conservation (Housing) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read the third time on Friday 6th November. 6 Weights and Measures (Beer and Cider) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for consideration of the Weights and Measures (Beer and Cider) Bill, not amended in the Standing Committee; Ordered, That the Bill be considered on Friday 6th November. 7 Breeding and Sale of Dogs Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for consideration of the Breeding and Sale of Dogs Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee; Ordered, That the Bill be considered on Friday 6th November. 8 Energy Efficiency Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for consideration of the Energy Efficiency Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee; Ordered, That the Bill be considered on Monday 6th July. 9 Company and Business Names (Chamber of Commerce, Etc.) Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Company and Business Names (Chamber of Commerce, Etc.) Bill (changed from Chamber of Commerce (Protection of Title) Bill), as amended in the Standing Committee. Ordered, That the Bill be read the third time on Friday 6th November. 10 Private Hire Vehicles (London) Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Private Hire Vehicles (London) Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee. The Bill was read the third time, and passed. 11 Local Authority Tenders Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for further consideration of the Local Authority Tenders Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee; Ordered, That the Bill be further considered on Friday 6th November. 12 National Health Service (Equity of Funding) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the National Health Service (Equity of Funding) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 10th July. 13 Employment (Age Discrimination in Advertisements) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Question proposed on 6th February, That the Employment (Age Discrimation in Advertisements) Bill be now read a second time; Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Friday 6th November. Page 661      Friday 3rd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 14 Religious Discrimination and Remedies Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Religious Discrimination and Remedies Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 15 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 6th November. 16 School Children's Clothing and Footwear (Value Added Tax) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the School Children's Clothing and Footwear (Value Added Tax) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 10th July. 17 Football Sponsorship Levy Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Football Sponsorship Levy Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 18 Local Exchange Trading Schemes Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Local Exchange Trading Schemes Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 19 Motor Accident Injury Compensation Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Motor Accident Injury Compensation Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 20 Children's Nurseries (Safety) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Children's Nurseries (Safety) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 21 Criminal Justice (International Co-operation) (Amendment) Bill [Lords],—The Criminal Justice (International Co-operation) (Amendment) Bill [Lords] was, according to Order, read a second time. A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 63 (Committal of bills), That the Bill be committed to a Committee of the whole House—(Mr Mike Hall):—It was agreed to. Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into the said Committee. (In the Committee) Clauses Nos. 1 and 2 agreed to. Bill to be reported, without Amendment. The Deputy Speaker resumed the Chair; and Mr Jim Dowd reported that the Committee had gone through the Bill and directed him to report the same, without Amendment. The Bill was read the third time, and passed, without Amendment. 22 Prevention of Delay in Trials Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Prevention of Delay in Trials Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 23 Lead in Paint (Health and Safety) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Lead in Paint (Health and Safety) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 24 Warm Homes and Energy Conservation (Fifteen Year Programme) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Warm Homes and Energy Conservation (Fifteen Year Programme) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 25 Cold Weather Payments (Wind Chill Factor) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Question proposed on 23rd January, That the Cold Weather Payments (Wind Chill Factor) Bill be now read a second time; Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Friday 10th July. Page 662      Friday 3rd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 26 Recycled Content of Newsprint Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Recycled Content of Newsprint Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 27 Home Zones Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Home Zones Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 28 Local Government (Experimental Arrangements) Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Local Government (Experimental Arrangements) Bill [Lords]; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 29 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 10th July. 30 Public Records (Amendment) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Question proposed on 30th January, That the Public Records (Amendment) Bill be now read a second time; Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Friday 10th July. 31 Local Government Boundary Changes (Referendum) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Local Government Boundary Changes (Referendum) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 32 Farming of Animals for Fur (Prohibition) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Farming of Animals for Fur (Prohibition) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 10th July. 33 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 6th November. 34 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 6th November. 35 Voluntary Personal Security Cards Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Voluntary Personal Security Cards Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 36 Millennium Conformity Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Millennium Conformity Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 37 Licensing (Amendment) Bill,—The Licensing (Amendment) Bill was, according to Order, read a second time and stood committed to a Standing Committee. 38 Mental Health (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Mental Health (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill [Lords]; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 17th July. 39 Building Societies (Joint Account Holders) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Building Societies (Joint Account Holders) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 40 School Transport Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the School Transport Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 41 Drinks Containers (Redemption) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Drinks Containers (Redemption) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. Page 663      Friday 3rd July 1998       1997-1998      Volume 254      Back to top 42 Electricity Generation Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Electricity Generation Bill [Lords]; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 6th November. 43 Restoration of Damage to Sites of Special Scientific Interest Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Restoration of Damage to Sites of Special Scientific Interest Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 10th July. 44 Sea Fisheries (Shellfish) (Amendment) Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Sea Fisheries (Shellfish) (Amendment) Bill [Lords]; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 24th July. 45 Landmines Bill,—Ordered, That, in respect of the Landmines Bill, notices of Amendments, new Clauses and new Schedules to be moved in Committee may be accepted by the Clerks at the Table before the Bill has been read a second time.—(Mr Jim Dowd.) 46 Landmines Bill,—Ordered, That, in respect of the Landmines Bill, if the Bill is committed to a Committee of the whole House, further proceedings on the Bill shall stand postponed; and that, as soon as the proceedings on any Resolution come to by the House on Landmines Bill [Money] have been concluded, this House will immediately resolve itself into a Committee on the Bill.—(Mr Jim Dowd.) 47 Business of the House,—Ordered, That, at the sitting on Tuesday 7th July, the Motion in the name of Mr William Hague relating to the Social Security Amendment (Lone Parents) Regulations 1998 may be proceeded with as if Standing Orders Nos. 16 (Proceedings under an Act or on European Community documents) and 17 (Delegated legislation (negative procedure)), were appplicable thereto.—(Mr Jim Dowd.) 48 Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Mr Jim Dowd); And the Motion having been made after half-past Two o'clock, 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 a quarter past Three o'clock, till Monday 6th July. [Adjourned at 3.15 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 1 National Health Service (Scotland),—National Health Service (General Medical Services) (Scotland) Amendment (No. 3) Regulations 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1600), dated 30th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar]. 2 National Lottery,—New Opportunities Fund (Specification of Initiatives) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1598), dated 3rd July 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith]. 3 Sports Grounds and Sporting Events,—Safety of Sports Grounds (Designation) (Scotland) Order 1998 (S.I., 1998, No. 1601), dated 30th June 1998 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Dewar]. Other Papers: 4 Covent Garden Market,—Statement of salaries of members of the Covent Garden Market Authority [by Act] [Dr John Cunningham]. 5 Criminal Appeal,—Accounts of the Criminal Cases Review Commission for the period 1st January 1997 to 31st March 1998, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 914] [Clerk of the House]. 6 Industrial Development (Northern Ireland),—Accounts of the Industrial Development Board for Northern Ireland for 1996–97, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General for Northern Ireland thereon [by Command] [Cm. 3987] [Secretary Marjorie Mowlam]. Previous Chronological Index Next   Part I Alphabetical Index Part II Alphabetical Index     © Parliamentary copyright 2007 Prepared 20 February 2007