Session 1999-2000

Commons Journal 256

Chronological Index
Alphabetical Index - Part I
Alphabetical Index - Part II


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Page 456            1999-2000      Volume 256      

[No. 121.]

Monday 26th June 2000.

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

PRAYERS.

1Global Cultural Diversity Congress (Singh Inquiry),—Resolved, That an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty, That she will be graciously pleased to give directions that there shall be laid before this House a Return of the Review of events leading up to the cancellation of the Global Cultural Diversity Congress, including possible implications for corporate governance of the Commission for Racial Equality, by Gurbux Singh.—(Mr Mike O'Brien.)

2First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Bill Olner reported from the First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Criminal Justice Act 1993 (Extension of Group A Offences) Order 2000.

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

3Census (Amendment) Bill [Lords] [Money],—Her Majesty's Recommendation having been signified to the proposed Motion relating to Census (Amendment) Bill [Lords] [Money];

Resolved, That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Census (Amendment) Bill [Lords], it is expedient to authorise the payment out of money provided by Parliament of any increase attributable to the Act in the sums payable out of money so provided under any other enactment.—(Mr Stephen Timms.)

4Judgments,—A Motion was made and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Civil Jurisdiction and Judgments Act 1982 (Amendment) Order 2000, which was laid before this House on 5th June, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

5Contracts,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Contracts (Applicable Law) Act 1990 (Amendment) Order 2000, which was laid before this House on 5th June, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

6Northern Ireland,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Northern Ireland Act 2000 (Restoration of Devolved Government) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1445), dated 27th May 2000, a copy of which was laid before this House on 5th June, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

7Northern Ireland,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the Northern Ireland Act 2000 (Modification) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1446), dated 27th May 2000, a copy of which was laid before this House on 5th June, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

8Local Government,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft London Local Authorities (Charges for Stopping Up Orders) Regulations 2000, which were laid before this House on 8th June, be approved—(Mr David Clelland):—It was agreed to.

9Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate Bill [Lords],—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate Bill [Lords], as amended in the Standing Committee.

Amendment (No. 1) proposed to the Bill, in page 1, line 18, at the end, to insert the words—

”, which inspection shall include consideration of the internal employment practices of the Service with particular reference to equal opportunities issues”.—(Mr Andrew Dismore.)

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

The Bill was read the third time, and passed, with an Amendment.

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10Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Kevin Hughes.)

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

[Adjourned at 5.58 p.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table.

Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1Medical Profession,—Draft Medical Act 1983 (Amendment) Order 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Milburn].

2Trade Union and Labour Relations,—Draft Code of Practice on Industrial Action Ballots and Notice to Employers [by Act] [Mr Secretary Byers].

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

3Civil Aviation,—Air Navigation Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1562), dated 14th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescot].

4Housing,—Housing (Right to Acquire) (Discount) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1622), dated 19th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

5Patents,—Patents (Convention Countries) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1560), dated 14th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Byers].

6Universities of Oxford and Cambridge,—Statute, dated 8th March 2000, made by the University of Oxford, amending the Statutes of the University [by Act] [Margaret Beckett].

7Value Added Tax,—Value Added Tax (Refund of Tax) (No. 3) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1672), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Dawn Primarolo].

Other Papers:

8Broadcasting,—Review, Report and Financial Statement of the Boradcasting Standards Commission for 1999–2000, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith].

9Foreign and Commonwealth Office,—Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minute, dated 22nd June 2000, concerning the indemnification of works of art lent to the British Council for exhibition to be held in a number of overseas locations during the second half of the financial year 2000–01 [by Command] [Mr Secretary Cook].

10Global Cultural Diversity Congress,—Return to an Address to Her Majesty this day for a Return of the Review, by Mr Gurbux Singh, of events leading to the cancellation of the Global Cultural Diversity Congress, including possible implications for corporate governance of the Commission for Racial Equality; to be printed [No. 565] [Mr Secretary Straw].

11Medical Profession,—Report on the public consultation on proposals to amend the Medical Act 1983 [by Command] [Mr Secretary Milburn].

12National Audit,—Report by theComptroller and Auditor General on the refinancing of the Fazakerley PFI prison contract [by Act]; to be printed [No. 584] [Clerk of the House].

13Treaty Series (No. 68, 2000),—Agreement, done at London on 1st March 2000, between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Mongolia concerning Air Services [by Command] [Cm. 4742] [Mr Secretary Cook].

14Treaty Series (No. 69, 2000),—Protocol, done at Montreal on 30th September 1977, relating to an Amendment to the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago) 1944 [by Command] [Cm. 4743] [Mr Secretary Cook].

APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

1Draft Criminal Justice Act 1993 (Extension of Group A Offences) Order 2000,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr David Chaytor and Mr Phil Sawford from the First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Order); and nominated in substitution Mr David Borrow and Christine Butler.

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2Draft Attorney General's Salary Order 2000,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr George Mudie from the Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Order); and nominated in substitution Mr David Crausby.

3Draft Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Designation of Public Authorities) Order 2000,—The Speaker has appointed Mrs Irene Adams Chairman of the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation in respect of the draft Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Designation of Public Authorities) Order 2000, in place of Dr Ashok Kumar.


[No. 122.]

Tuesday 27th June 2000.

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

PRAYERS.

1City of Newcastle upon Tyne Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for the Third Reading of the City of Newcastle upon Tyne Bill [Lords];

Ordered, That the Bill be read the third time on Tuesday 4th July.

2Greenham and Crookham Commons Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Greenham and Crookham Commons Bill;

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Tuesday 4th July.

3Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Jim Cunningham reported from the Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Attorney General's Salary Order 2000.

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

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

The Lords agree without Amendment to the Amendment made by this House to the Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate Bill [Lords].

5New Member sworn,—Mr David Lammy, Member for Tottenham, was sworn.

6Ministerial Conduct,—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to make provision for enforcement of the Ministerial Code of Conduct: And that Mr Andrew Robathan and Mr Martin Bell do prepare and bring it in.

7Ministerial Conduct Bill,—Mr Andrew Robathan accordingly presented a Bill to make provision for enforcement of the Ministerial Code of Conduct: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 21st July and to be printed [Bill 147].

8Learning and Skills Bill [Lords] [Ways and Means],—Resolved, That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Learning and Skills Bill [Lords], it is expedient to authorise the making of provision for the manner in which payments to trainees are to be treated for the purposes of the Income Tax Acts.—(Mr David Clelland.)

9Learning and Skills Bill [Lords],—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Learning and Skills Bill [Lords], as amended in the Standing Committee.

Ordered, That the Bill, as amended, be considered in the following order: new Clauses relating to city academies; amendments relating to Clauses 124 to 126 and Schedule 8; New Clauses relating to selective admissions policy; amendments relating to Clause 135; New Clauses relating to Part I; amendments relating to Part I; New Clauses relating to Part II; amendments relating to Part II; New Clauses relating to Part III; amendments relating to Part III; New Clauses relating to Part IV; amendments relating to Clauses 71 to 123 and Schedule 7; amendments relating to Clauses 127 to 134; amendments relating to Clauses 136 to 143 and Schedules 9 and 10; Remaining New Clauses; New Schedules; amendments relating to Schedule 11.—(Mr Clive Betts.)

A Clause (City academies: financial provisions)—(Mr Secretary Blunkett)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill.

Amendments (Nos. 71, 107, 72 and 108 to 123) made to the Bill.

A Clause (Selective education policy: local education authorities)—(Dr Stephen Ladyman)—brought up and read the first time.

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

Another Clause (Grammar schools: retention of selective admission arrangements)—(Mr John Bercow)—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 John Randall, Mrs Eleanor Laing: 132.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Mike Hall, Mr David Clelland: 330.

Another Amendment (No. 83) proposed to the Bill, in page 67, to leave out lines 2 to 29 and to insert the words—

‘(2) In section 403 (sex education: manner of provision) in subsection (1) for the words “and the value of family life” substitute “the value of family life and sexual health”.

(3) After section 403 insert—

”403A(1) The Secretary of State must issue guidance designed to secure that the following general objectives are met when sex education is given to registered pupils at maintained schools.

(2) The general objectives are that the pupils—

(a) learn about the nature of marriage as the key building block of society and its importance for family life and for the bringing up of children;

(b) learn about the significance of stability in family relationships;

(c) learn to respect themselves and others;

(d) are protected from teaching and materials which a reasonable person would regard as inappropriate having regard to—

(i) whether information is accurate and objective;

(ii) the language and images used;

(iii) the age of the pupils; and

(iv) the provisions of section 403, this section and section 403B.

(3) When sex education is given to pupils who are in the third or fourth key stage or over compulsory school age, the general objectives referred to in subsection (1) are to include the following additional objectives.

(4) The additional objectives are that the pupils—

(a) learn to understand human sexuality;

(b) learn the reasons for delaying sexual activity and the benefits to be gained from such delay;

(c) learn about obtaining appropriate advice on sexual health.

(5) The Secretary of State's guidance must also be designed to secure that sex education given to registered pupils at maintained schools contribute to

(a) promoting the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of the pupils and of society;

(b) preparing the pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life.

(6) No guidance under subsection (1) shall be issued or substantially revised unless a draft of the guidance has been laid in draft before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

(7) Local education authorities, governing bodies and head teachers must, in discharging their functions under section 403, have regard to the Secretary of State's guidance.

(8) In this section “maintained school” includes a community or foundation special school established in a hospital.”.'.—(Mr Tim Boswell.)

Question, That the Amendment be made, put and negatived.

Another Amendment (No. 73) proposed, in page 67, line 11, after the first word ‘are', to insert the words—

‘(a) taught that marriage provides a strong foundation for stable relationships and the most reliable framework for raising children; and

(b)'.—(Mr Gerald Howarth.)

Question put, That the Amendment be made.

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The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Stephen Day, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: 129.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr David Jamieson, Mr Don Touhig: 303.

Another Clause (Teaching of engineering and science related subjects)—(Mr Phil Willis)—brought up and read the first time.

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

It being Ten o'clock, further consideration of the Bill stood adjourned.

10Business 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 Learning and Skills Bill [Lords] may be proceeded with, though opposed, until any hour—(Mr Clive Betts):—It was agreed to.

11Learning and Skills Bill [Lords],—The House again proceeded to consider the Learning and Skills Bill [Lords], as amended in the Standing Committee.

Another Amendment (No. 87) proposed, in page 4, line 24, at the end, to add the words—

‘(4) Any funding by the Council of provision of education and training under this Act (whether direct or indirect) shall be in accordance with the arrangements and formula contained in any order made under subsection (1) of section (Free Schools).'.—(Mrs Theresa May.)

Question put, That the Amendment be made.

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr John Randall, Mr Stephen Day: 122.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Gerry Sutcliffe, Mr Robert Ainsworth: 323.

Other Amendments (Nos. 28 to 30, 57, 58, 31, 91, 32 and 42 to 44) made to the Bill.

Another Clause (Plans: Wales)—(Mr David Hanson)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill.

Another Clause (Strategy: Wales)—(Mr David Hanson)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill.

Other Amendments (Nos. 33 to 35, 59, 60, 92, 45 to 47, 17, 18 and 23 to 25) made to the Bill.

Another Clause (Annual Plan of the Chief Inspector for Wales)—(Mr Malcolm Wicks)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill.

Other Amendments (Nos. 19 to 22) made to the Bill.

Another Amendment (No. 36) proposed to the Bill, in line 23, to leave out subsection (1).—(Mr Malcolm Wicks.)

Question proposed, That the Amendment be made.

Wednesday 28th June 2000

Question put and agreed to.

Other Amendments (Nos. 37 to 39 and 95 to 100) made to the Bill.

Another Amendment (No. 78) proposed to the Bill, in page 49, line 38, after the word ‘particular', to insert the words ‘, while having regard to the needs of all young people for access to independent guidance and to a mode of service which is appropriate to their particular circumstances'.—(Mr Tim Boswell.)

Question, That the Amendment be made, put and negatived.

Other Amendments (Nos. 106 and 9 to 12) made to the Bill.

Another Amendment (No. 105) proposed to the Bill, in page 85, to leave out lines 20 and 21.—(Mr James Clappison.)

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

Other Amendments (Nos. 13 to 16, 88, 124, 125, 40, 89, 41, 126, 101, 127, 128, 102, 61, 90, 62, 93, 63, 64, 48, 94, 49, 50, 65, 66, 51, 67, 68, 52, 26 and 53) made to the Bill.

Other Clauses (Transfers: Wales) (Qualifying arrangements: Northern Ireland) (Grants: Northern Ireland) (Financial support for students: Northern Ireland) (Further education colleges: governors' liability) (Training programmes: cessation of funding)

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(Pensions) (Pensions: interpretation) (Pensions: delegation) and (Commencement)—(Mr Malcolm Wicks)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill.

Other Amendments (Nos. 69, 54, 55, 70, 56 and 27) made to the Bill.

The Bill was read the third time, and passed, with Amendments.

12Criminal 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 Criminal Justice Act 1993 (Extension of Group A Offences) Order 2000, which was laid before this House on 12th June, be approved—(Mr Clive Betts):—It was agreed to.

13Estimates,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 145 (Liaison Committee), That this House agrees with the Report [22nd June] of the Liaison Committee—(Mr Clive Betts):—It was agreed to.

14Public Petitions,—A Public Petition from residents of Northavon and surrounding areas opposing discrimination by the broadcasting authorities against religious bodies was presented and read; and ordered to lie upon the Table and to be printed.

15Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Gerry Sutcliffe.)

And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till six minutes to Two o'clock on Wednesday morning, adjourned till this day.

[Adjourned at 1.54 a.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1Export and Investment Guarantees,—Draft Export and Investment Guarantees (Limit on Foreign Currency Commitments) Order 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Byers].

2Immigration,—Draft Special Immigration Appeals Commission (Procedure) (Amendment) Rules 2000 [by Act] [Mr David Lock].

3Legal Aid and Advice,—(1) Draft Legal Aid (Functions) Order 2000, and

(2) draft Legal Aid (Prescribed Panels) (Amendment) Regulations 2000

[by Act] [Mr David Lock].

4Local Government Finance,—Local Government Finance (England) Special Grant Report (No. 64) on Special Grant for Activities Undertaken by Beacon Councils [by Act]; to be printed [No. 564] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

5Animals,—Animals and Animal Products (Import and Export) (England and Wales) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1673), dated 22nd June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Nicholas Brown].

6Consumer Protection,—Cosmetic Products (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1679), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Byers].

7Merchant Shipping,—Merchant Shipping (Formal Investigations) (Amendment) Rules 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1623), dated 16th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

8Telegraphs,—Wireless Telegraphy (Licence Charges) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1678), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Byers].

9Town and Country Planning,—(1) Town and Country Planning (Appeals) (Written Representations Procedure) (England) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1628), and

(2) Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure) (England) (Amendment) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1627),

dated 20th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

10Transport,—Railways (Interoperability) (Notified Bodies) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1674), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

11Tribunals and Inquiries,—(1) Town and Country Planning Appeals (Determination by Inspectors) (Inquiries Procedure) (England) Rules 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1625),

(2) Town and Country Planning (Hearings Procedure) (England) Rules 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1626), and

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(3) Town and Country Planning (Inquiries Procedure) (England) Rules 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1624)

dated 17th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

Other Papers:

12London Regional Transport,—Report of the London Regional Passengers' Committee for April 1999 to June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

13Special Procedure Orders,—Report by the Chairman of Committees in the House of Lords and the Chairman of Ways and Means in the House of Commons, under section 3 of the Statutory Orders (Special Procedure) Act 1945, that no Petition has been presented against the Devil's Dyke Brighton and Hove Compulsory Rights Order 2000 [by Act] [Chairman of Ways and Means].

Papers withdrawn:

14Medical Profession,—(1) Draft Medical Act 1983 (Amendment) Order 2000, and

(2) Report on the public consultation on proposals to amend the Medical Act 1983

[laid on 26th June].

APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

Draft Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Designation of Public Authorities) Order 2000,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Ms Hazel Blears, Mr David Lepper, Mr Ted Rowlands and Dr Phyllis Starkey from the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Order); and nominated in substitution Mrs Louise Ellman, Mr Austin Mitchell, Mr George Mudie and Dr George Turner.

APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1Agriculture,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Agriculture Committee [Agriculture and Environment Biotechnology Commission]; to be printed [No. 625-i]; and

(2) Memoranda laid before the Committee [Organic Farming; Regional Service Centres]

[Mr David Curry].

2Defence,—Eighth Special Report from the Defence Comittee [Government Observations on the Fifth Report of the Committee, Session 1999–2000, on the Defence Geographic and Imagery Intelligence Agency]; to be printed [No. 629] [Mr Bruce George].

3Education and Employment,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Education Sub-Committee of the Education and Employment Committee [Higher Education]; to be printed [No. 400-vii] [Mr Barry Sheerman].

4Environmental Audit,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environmental Audit Committee [Costing the Environment: Setting Water Prices for 2000–2005]; to be printed [No. 597-ii] [Mr John Horam].

5Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environment Sub-Committee of the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee [UK Biodiversity]; to be printed [No. 441-vi] [Mr Andrew F. Bennett].

6Foreign Affairs,—Fifth Report from the Foreign Affairs Committee [Annual Reports of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and British Trade International 2000], 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. 507] [Mr Donald Anderson].

7International Development,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the International Development Committee [HIV/AIDS and Social and Economic Development]; to be printed [No. 558-iii] [Mr Bowen Wells].

8Public Accounts,—(1) Twenty-fifth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [MAFF: Progress made on Committee Recommendations]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 257];

(2) Twenty-Sixth Report from the Committee [The Private Finance Initiative: The Contract for the Defence Fixed Telecommunications System]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 413];

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(3) Twenty-seventh Report from the Committee [Criminal Justice: Working Justice]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 298]; and

(4) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee on 26th June [The National Health Service Executive]; to be printed [No. 624-i]

[Mr David Davis].

9Science and Technology,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Science and Technology Committee on 26th June [Are We Realising Our Potential?]; to be printed [No. 466-iv] [Dr Michael Clark].

10Statutory Instruments,—Twenty-third Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, together with Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be printed [No. 47-xxiii] [Mr Andrew F. Bennett].

11Trade and Industry,—(1) Eighth Special Report from the Trade and Industry Committee [Government Observations on the Eighth Report from the Trade and Industry Committee, Session 1999–2000, on BMW, Rover and Longbridge]; to be printed [No. 634]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Vehicle Manufacturing in the UK]; to be printed [No. 534-ii]

[Mr Martin O'Neill].

12Treasury,—(1) Fourth Special Report from the Treasury Committee [Goverment Response to the Third Report from the Committee, Session 1999–2000, on The International Monetary Fund]; to be printed [No. 628]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Economic and Monetary Union]; to be printed [No. 573-iv]

[Mr Giles Radice].

13Welsh Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Welsh Affairs Committee [The First Year's Work of the Office of the Secretary of State for Wales]; to be printed [No. 627-i] [Mr Martyn Jones].


[No. 122; WH, No. 73.]

Tuesday 27th June 2000.

The House sitting in Westminster Hall [pursuant to Order of 24th May 1999].

The sitting commenced at Ten o'clock.

Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Mr Clive Betts);

And it being One o'clock, the sitting was adjourned without Question put, till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 1 p.m.


[No. 123.]

Wednesday 28th June 2000.

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

PRAYERS.

1City of London (Ward Elections) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for further consideration of the City of London (Ward Elections) Bill, as amended by the Chairman of Ways and Means;

Ordered, That the Bill be further considered on Wednesday 5th July.

2Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mrs Irene Adams reported from the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Designation of Public Authorities) Order 2000.

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

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3House of Commons (Reserved Matters),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to prescribe which Members of the House of Commons may participate only in proceedings on reserved matters under the Scotland and Northern Ireland Acts 1998 or may be appointed only to a ministerial office having responsibility for such matters—(Mr Frank Field);

And the Motion being opposed, after a brief explanatory statement from the Member who made the Motion and from a Member who opposed it, Mr 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 Peter Atkinson, Mr Michael Connarty : 131.

Tellers for the Noes, Mrs Eleanor Laing, Mr Tom Brake : 190.

So the Question was negatived.

4Limited Liability Partnerships Bill [Lords],—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Limited Liability Partnerships Bill [Lords], as amended in the Standing Committee.

A Clause (Returns to registrar)—(Mr Austin Mitchell)—brought up, and read the first time.

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

Amendment (No. 1) proposed to the Bill, in page 3, to leave out lines 22 and 23 and insert the words—

‘(b) subject to paragraph (a), by the rules and principles which would apply if the law relating to partnerships applied to them', instead thereof.—(Mr Nick Gibb.)

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

Another Amendment (No. 7) proposed to the Bill, in page 10, line 15, after the word ‘to', to insert the words ‘bodies corporate recognised by the Law Society under section 9 of the Administration of Justice Act 1985'.—(Mr John Burnett.)

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

Another Amendment (No. 2) proposed to the Bill, in page 10, line 22, at the end, to insert the words—

‘(2) Section 458 of the Companies Act 1985 (punishment for fraudulent trading) shall apply to limited liability partnerships'.—(Mr Nick Gibb.)

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

Amendment (No. 6) made to the Bill.

The Bill was read the third time, and passed, with Amendments.

5Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill, not amended in the Standing Committee.

Amendment (No. 2) proposed to the Bill, in page 2, line 2, to leave out the words ‘or other disposal'.—(Mr Malcolm Moss.)

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

Another Amendment (No. 5) proposed to the Bill, in page 3, line 14, to leave out from the word ‘authority' to the word ‘by' in line 15 and insert the word ‘shall', instead thereof.—(Mr Malcolm Moss.)

Question, That the Amendment be made, put and negatived.

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

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

5Business 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 Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill may be proceeded with, though opposed, until any hour—(Mr Don Touhig):—It was agreed to.

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6Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill,—The Question being again proposed, That the Fur Farming (Prohibition) Bill be now read the third time:—The House resumed the adjourned Debate.

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

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

7Parliament,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Attorney General's Salary Order 2000, which was laid before this House on 15th June, be approved—(Mr Greg Pope):—It was agreed to.

8Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Greg Pope.)

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

[Adjourned at 11.07 p.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1Local Government Finance,—(1) Local Government Finance (England) Special Grant Report (No. 63) on Invest to Save Grant [by Act]; to be printed [No. 538] [Mr Secretary Milburn]; and

(2) Local Government Finance (England) Special Grant Report (No. 66) on Threshold and Leadership Group Payments, and

(3) Local Government Finance (England) Special Grant Report (No. 67) on Heads', Deputies' and Advanced Skills Teachers' Performance Pay Progression and Deputies' Assimilation

[by Act]; to be printed [Nos. 568 and 569] [Mr Secretary Blunkett].

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

2Agriculture,—Feedingstuffs (Zootechnical Products) and Medicated Feedingstuffs (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1686), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Nicholas Brown].

3Education,—Rutland Sixth Form College, Oakham (Dissolution) Order 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1684), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett].

4Merchant Shipping,—Merchant Shipping (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1683), dated 26th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott].

5National Health Service,—National Health Service (General Medical Services) Amendment (No. 3) Regulations 2000 (S.I., 2000, No. 1645), dated 20th June 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Milburn].

Other Papers:

6Air Force (Constitution),—(1) Regulations of the Defence Council, dated 15th June 2000, relating to the Royal Air Force Manual of Assessment of Medical Fitness: Air Publication 1269A (Third Edition), and

(2) Regulations of the Defence Council, dated 13th June 2000, relating to the Regulations for the Reserve Air Forces: Air Publication 3392 Volume 7 (First Edition)

[by Act] [Mr Secretary Hoon].

7Broadcasting,—(1) Report, and

(2) Statement of Accounts

of S4C for 1999 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith].

8Criminal Appeal,—Report and Accounts of the Criminal Cases Review Commission for 1999–2000, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act] [Mr Secretary Straw].

9Defence,—Lists of exceptions to—

(1) the Air Force Regulations,

(2) the Army Regulations, and

(3) the Navy Regulations

as to pensions for 1999–2000 [by Command] [Mr Secretary Hoon].

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10Japan (No. 1, 2000),—Agreement, done at Tokyo on 29th February 2000, between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Japan on Social Security, with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Cm. 4744] [Mr Secretary Cook].

11National Audit,—Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General on the New British Embassy in Berlin [by Act]; to be printed [No. 585] [Clerk of the House].

12Public Accounts,—Treasury Minute on the Twelfth to Sixteenth Reports from the Committee of Public Accounts, Session 1999–2000 [by Command] [Cm. 4758] [Mr Stephen Timms].

13Tribunals,—Special Report of the Council on Tribunals on Mental Health Review Tribunals [by Command] [Cm.4740] [Mr David Lock].

APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

1Children (Leaving Care) Bill [Lords]:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the Bill to Standing Committee A; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr David Amess, Dr Peter Brand, Mr Hilton Dawson, Maria Eagle, Caroline Flint, Mr Michael Jabez Foster, Mr Philip Hammond, Mrs Joan Humble, Mr John Hutton, Mr David Jamieson, Mr David Kidney, Ms Julie Morgan, Mr Jonathan R. Shaw, Mr Keith Simpson, Mrs Caroline Spelman and Mr Simon Thomas.

2Census (Amendment) Bill [Lords]:

(1) The Speaker has appointed Mr Joe Benton Chairman of Standing Committee D in respect of the Census (Amendment) Bill [Lords], in place of Mr John Butterfill; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Ms Candy Atherton, Mr John Bercow, Mr Peter Bradley, Mr Ivor Caplin, Mr Vernon Coaker, Mr Edward Davey, Mr Brian H. Donohoe, Mr Michael Jabez Foster, Mr Andrew George, Mr Denis MacShane, Fiona Mactaggart, Mr Richard Ottaway, Mr Jonathan Sayeed, Mr David Taylor, Mr Stephen Timms and Mr Andrew Tyrie.

3Draft Pollution Prevention and Control (England and Wales) Regulations 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr John McWilliam Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr Robert Ainsworth, Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Tom Brake, Mr Roger Godsiff, Mr Keith Hill, Ms Oona King, Mr Martin Linton, Mr Tim Loughton, Mr Paul Marsden, Mr Lembit Opik, Mr Owen Paterson, Mr Andrew Robathan, Mr Geoffrey Robinson, Mr Terry Rooney, Dr Rudi Vis and Mr Anthony D. Wright.

4Draft Medical Act 1983 (Amendment) Order 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr John Cummings Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Ann Clwyd, Mr Iain Coleman, Mr Brian Cotter, Mr Denzil Davies, Mr John Denham, Mr Paul Goggins, Mr Nigel Griffiths, Mr Philip Hammond, Mr Nick Harvey, Mr Kevin Hughes, Mr Piara S. Khabra, Mr Peter Kilfoyle, Mr Syd Rapson, Mr Keith Simpson, Mr Peter Viggers and Mr David Wilshire.

5Draft European Court of Human Rights (Immunities and Privileges) Order 2000 and draft International Seabed Authority (Immunities and Privileges) Order 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Orders to the Third Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mrs Irene Adams Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr John Battle, Mr Dale Campbell-Savours, Dr David Clark, Mr Terry Davis, Mr Stephen Day, Helen Jones, Mr Paul Keetch, Rosemary McKenna, Mr Tony McNulty, Mr Mark Oaten, Mr James Plaskitt, Mr Phil Sawford, Mr Richard Spring, Mr John Townend, Mr John Wilkinson and Mr Mike Wood.

6Code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Sheep and draft Welfare of Farmed Animals (England) Regulations 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the Code and draft Regulations to the Fourth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Andrew Welsh Chairman; and

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(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr David Amess, Norman Baker, Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr David Chaytor, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Mr David Curry, Mr Bill Etherington, Mr David Heath, Mrs Anne McGuire, Mr Kevin McNamara, Mr Bill Michie, Ms Julie Morgan, Mr Elliot Morley, Mr Malcolm Moss, Dr Gavin Strang and Mr David Taylor.

7Draft Social Security Amendment (Students) Regulations 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Andrew Welsh Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr Tony Banks, Sir Paul Beresford, Ms Hazel Blears, Mr Richard Burden, Mrs Janet Dean, Angela Eagle, Barbara Follett, Mr Michael Foster, Mr Christopher Fraser, Mr Andrew George, Mr Kevin Hughes, Mr Eric Pickles, Mr Gwyn Prosser, Mr John Randall, Mr Andrew Reed and the Reverend Martin Smyth.

8Draft National Minimum Wage Regulations 1999 (Amendment) Regulations 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Bill O'Brien Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Ms Candy Atherton, Mr Roy Beggs, Mr Ben Bradshaw, Dr Vincent Cable, Mr Ben Chapman, Mr Nick Gibb, Dr Brian Iddon, Mr Alan Johnson, Mr Alan Keen, Mrs Eleanor Laing, Mr Edward Leigh, Mr Greg Pope, Mr Gerry Steinberg, Mr Neil Turner, Mr Stephen Twigg and Sir Raymond Whitney.

9Draft Insider Dealing (Securities and Regulated Markets) (Amendment) Order 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mrs Irene Adams Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr Graham Allen, Mr John Burnett, Mr Simon Burns, Mr William Cash, Mr Tony Clarke, Mr John Cryer, Mr Edward Davey, Mr Frank Field, Mr Howard Flight, Miss Melanie Johnson, Mr Andrew Miller, Dr Doug Naysmith, Mr Ted Rowlands, Joan Ryan, Mr Keith Simpson and Dr Phyllis Starkey.

10Draft Data Protection (Designated Codes of Practice) (No. 2) Order 2000 and draft Data Protection (Miscellaneous Subject Access Exemptions) (Amendment) Order 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Orders to the Eighth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Jim Cunningham Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Mr Richard Allan, Mr Ronnie Campbell, Mr Jeremy Corbyn, Mr David Drew, Mr Clive Efford, Mr Win Griffiths, Mr Mike Hall, Mr Oliver Heald, Mr Peter Luff, Mr Mike O'Brien, Mr Kerry Pollard, Mr Allan Rogers, Angela Smith, Sir Teddy Taylor, Mr William Thompson and Mr Michael Trend.

11Draft Education (School Government) (Terms of Reference) (England) Regulations 2000:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Ninth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Jonathan Sayeed Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee, viz.: Ms Diane Abbott, Mr Richard Allan, Mr Clive Betts, Mr James Clappison, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Lorna Fitzsimons, Mr Fabian Hamilton, Mr Doug Henderson, Glenda Jackson, Mr Ian Pearson, Jacqui Smith, Rachel Squire, Mr Anthony Steen, Mr Desmond Swayne, Mr Peter Temple-Morris and Mr Phil Willis.

12Draft Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Designation of Public Authorities) Order 2000,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Ms Candy Atherton from the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Order); and nominated in substitution Mr Desmond Browne.

Grand Committees

13The Speaker has appointed Mr John Butterfill and Mr Roger Gale Chairmen of the Northern Ireland Grand Committee in respect of its meeting on 5th July.

14The Speaker has appointed Mrs Irene Adams and Mr Jimmy Hood Chairmen of the Scottish Grand Committee in respect of its meeting on 10th July.

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European Standing Committees

15European Union Documents Nos. 8795/00 and COM(00) 268, relating to financial assistance to the Western Balkans and revision of the financial perspective, have been referred to European Standing Committee B, together with the unnumbered Explanatory Memorandum submitted by HM Treasury on 27th June 2000 relating to the Preliminary Draft Budget 2001.

APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1Agriculture,—Sixth Report from the Agriculture Committee [The Implications for UK Agriculture and EU Agricultural Policy of Trade Liberalisation and the WTO Round], 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. 246] [Mr David Curry].

2Broadcasting,—First Report from the Broadcasting Committee [The Development of Parliamentary Broadcasting], together with Appendices; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 642] [Mr Eric Clarke].

3Defence,—Tenth Report from the Defence Committee [Major Procurement Projects], 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. 528] [Mr Bruce George].

4Education and Employment,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Education Sub-Committee of the Education and Employment Committee [Early Years Education; Higher Education]; to be printed [Nos. 386-vii and 400-viii] [Mr Barry Sheerman].

5Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs,—(1) Eleventh Report from the Environment, Transport and Regional Affairs Committee [Proposed Urban White Paper], 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 [Nos. 185-I and -viii]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Transport Sub-Committee of the Committee [Air Service Agreements between the United Kingdom and the United States]; to be printed [No. 532-v]

[Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody].

6European Scrutiny,—Twenty-third Report from the European Scrutiny Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 23-xxiii] [Mr Jimmy Hood].

7Foreign Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Foreign Affairs Committee [Weapons of Mass Destruction]; to be printed [No. 407-iii] [Mr Donald Anderson].

8Northern Ireland Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee [Resource Accounting and Estimate for Class XV, Vote 2]; to be printed [No. 639-i] [Mr Peter Brooke].

9Public Accounts,—(1) Twenty-Eighth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Inland Revenue/EDS Strategic Partnerships: Award of New Work]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 431]; and

(2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Emergency Aid: The Kosovo Crisis]; to be printed [No. 641-i]

[Mr David Davis].

10Public Administration,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Select Committee on Public Administration [Public Sector Ombudsman Review]; to be printed [No. 612-ii] [Tony Wright].

11Social Security,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Social Security Committee [Pensioner Poverty]; to be printed [No. 606-ii] [Mr Archy Kirkwood].

12Treasury,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Sub-Committee of the Treasury Committee [HM Treasury]; to be printed [No. 492-iv] [Mr Giles Radice].

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[No. 123; WH, No. 74.]

Wednesday 28th June 2000.

The House sitting in Westminster Hall [pursuant to Order of 24th May 1999].

The sitting commenced at half-past Nine o'clock.

Adjournment,—Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Mr Kevin Hughes.)

And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 1.30 p.m.


[No. 124.]

Thursday 29th June 2000.

The House met at half-past Eleven o'clock.

PRAYERS.

1London Local Authorities Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read, for consideration of the London Local Authorities Bill [Lords], as amended in the Committee;

Ordered, That the Bill be considered on Wednesday 5th July at Seven o'clock.

2Mersey Tunnels Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Mersey Tunnels Bill;

Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 6th July.

3Finance Bill (except Clauses Nos. 1, 12, 30, 31, 59, 102 and 113),—Mr Frank Cook reported from Standing Committee H, That it had gone through the Finance Bill (except Clauses Nos. 1, 12, 30, 31, 59, 102 and 113), and made Amendments thereunto.

Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee, to be considered on Monday 3rd July; and to be printed [Bill 148].

Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 652].

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

Trustee Bill [Lords],—The Lords have passed a Bill to amend the law relating to trustees and persons having the investment powers of trustees; and for connected purposes; to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House.

5Trustee Bill [Lords],—The Trustee Bill [Lords] was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Monday 3rd July and to be printed [Bill 149].

Ordered, That the Explanatory Notes relating to the Trustee Bill [Lords] be printed [Bill 149–EN].

The Bill stood referred to a second reading committee, pursuant to Standing Order No. 59 (Law Commission Bills).

6Weights and Measures (Amendment) Bill,—Ordered, That the Weights and Measures (Amendment) Bill be read a second time on Friday 21st July.

7Public Administration,—Ordered, That the Minutes of Proceedings of the Select Committee on Public Administration on 28th June be printed [No. 647] [Tony Wright].

8Opposition 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.

Priorities in the NHS,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House deplores the Government's continued distortion of priorities in the National Health Service through its focus on political targets rather than clinical outcomes, its waste of scarce NHS resources, which would be better spent treating patients, on propaganda exercises, the bogus “national consultation” and a new logo, its manipulation of the appointments system within the NHS and its continued political interference in day to day management, creating a climate of fear and frustration which is driving good NHS managers out of the Service, and its failure to live up to its promises to end post-code rationing and to put patients first; and notes the huge gap between Labour's promises on health at the last General Election and the reality today, which is that, for the great majority of the British people, the NHS has got worse, not better, under this Labour Government—(Dr Liam Fox);

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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 ‘welcomes the decision to prepare a National Plan for the NHS in England, bringing together doctors, nurses, patients' organisations and others working in the NHS to set out priorities for the modernisation of the NHS; welcomes the largest sustained increase in funding in the history of the NHS; and rejects the use of taxpayers' money to subsidise private medical insurance', instead thereof.—(Mr Secretary Milburn.)

And the Question being proposed, That the original words stand part of the Question;

Mr James Arbuthnot 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;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Keith Simpson: 122.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Graham Allen, Mr Tony McNulty: 278.

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);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Graham Allen, Mr Tony McNulty: 261.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr John Randall, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: 97.

So the Question was agreed to.

The Deputy Speaker forthwith declared the Main Question, as amended, to be agreed to.

Resolved, That this House welcomes the decision to prepare a National Plan for the NHS in England, bringing together doctors, nurses, patients' organisations and others working in the NHS to set out priorities for the modernisation of the NHS, welcomes the largest sustained increase in funding in the history of the NHS, and rejects the use of taxpayers' money to subsidise private medical insurance.

9Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Keith Bradley.)

And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till twenty-two minutes past Seven o'clock, adjourned till Monday 3rd July.

[Adjourned at 7.22 p.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1Constitutional Law,—(1) Draft National Assembly for Wales (Transfer of Functions) (No. 2) Order 2000, and

(2) draft National Assembly for Wales (Transfer of Functions) (Variation) Order 2000

[by Act] [Mr Secretary Murphy].

2Medical Profession,—Draft Medical Act 1983 (Amendment) Order 2000 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Milburn].

Other Papers:

3Child Care in North Wales,—Paper, entitled Learning the Lessons: the Government's Response to the Report of the Tribunal of Inquiry into the abuse of children in care in the former county council areas of Gwynedd and Clwyd since 1974 (”Lost in Care”) [by Command] [Cm. 4776] [Mr Secretary Milburn].

4Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall,—Financial Statements of the Duchy of Cornwall for 1999–2000 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 539] [Mr Stephen Timms].

5Fair Trading,—Report of the Director General of Fair Trading for 1999 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 576] [Mr Secretary Byers].

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6Government Trading Funds,—Report and Accounts of the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre for 1999–2000, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 577] [Clerk of the House].

7Medical Profession,—Report on the Public Consultation on Proposals to Amend the Medical Act 1983 [by Command] [Mr Secretary Milburn].

8Scottish Executive Agencies,—Chief Executive's Summary and Accounts of the Fisheries Research Services for 1998–99, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 188] [Mr Secretary Reid].

9Superannuation,—Civil Service Additional Voluntary Contribution Scheme (Amendment) Scheme 2000 [by Command] [Marjorie Mowlam].

APPENDIX II

Standing Committees

Children (Leaving Care) Bill [Lords],—The Speaker appointed Mrs Ray Michie Chairman of Standing Committee A in respect of the Bill.

APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1Culture, Media and Sport,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee [Marking the Millennium in the United Kingdom]; to be printed [No. 578-ii] [Mr Gerald Kaufman].

2Health,—(1) Third Report from the Health Committee [Consultants' Contracts], 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. 586]; and

(2) Memoranda laid before the Committee [Consultants' Contracts]

[Mr David Hinchliffe].

3International Development,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the International Development Committee [HIV/AIDS and Social and Economic Development]; to be printed [No. 558-iv] [Mr Bowen Wells].


[No. 124; WH, No. 75.]

Thursday 29th June 2000.

The House sitting in Westminster Hall [pursuant to Order of 24th May 1999].

The sitting commenced at half-past Two o'clock.

Adjournment (The Future of Sanctions),—Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Mr Greg Pope.)

And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till Tuesday 4th July.

[Adjourned at 5.29 p.m.



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