Commons Journal 260 Chronological Index Alphabetical Index - Part I Alphabetical Index - Part II Previous Next Page 159            2003-2004      Volume 260       [No. 46.] Monday 1st March 2004. The House met at half-past Two o'clock. PRAYERS. 1 Consolidation, &c., Bills,—Sir Patrick Cormack reported from the Select Committee appointed to join with a Committee of the House of Lords on Consolidation, &c., Bills, to which the Statute Law (Repeals) Bill [Lords], now pending in the House of Lords, was referred, That it had gone through the Bill; and had agreed to a Report which it had directed him to make to the House; and had directed him to report the Minutes of Evidence taken before it on 1st March. Report to lie upon the Table; and to be printed [No. 403-I] Minutes of Evidence to lie upon the Table; and to be printed [No. 403-II] Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 403-II]. 2 First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Martin Caton reported from the First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Rates (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2004. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 3 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: The Lords have agreed to the European Parliamentary and Local Elections (Pilots) Bill, with Amendments; to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House. 4 European Parliamentary and Local Elections (Pilots) Bill,—Lords Amendments to the European Parliamentary and Local Elections (Pilots) Bill to be considered to-morrow; and to be printed [Bill 63]. 5 Christmas Day (Trading) Bill,—Ordered, That the Explanatory Notes relating to the Christmas Day (Trading) Bill be printed [Bill 20–EN]. 6 Civil Service Bill,—The Order for reading the Civil Service Bill a second time on Friday 5th March was read and discharged. Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 12th March. 7 Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, Etc.) Bill (Programme) (No. 2),—Ordered, That— (1) Paragraphs 4 and 5 of the Programme Order of 17th December 2003 shall be omitted; (2) proceedings on consideration and Third Reading shall be taken at today's sitting in the order shown in the following table, and shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion at the time specified in the second column: Proceedings Time for conclusion of proceedings Amendments relating to Clauses 1 and 2, Clause 6, Clause 15, Clauses 3 to 5. 1 hour 15 minutes after commencement of proceedings on consideration. Amendments relating to Clauses 7 to 10. 2 hours 30 minutes after commencement of proceedings on consideration. Amendments relating to Clause 11, Schedules 1 and 2, Clauses 12 and 13, Schedule 3, Clause 14, Clauses 16 to 29, Schedule 4, new Clauses, new Schedules, remaining proceedings on consideration. 9 p.m. Third reading 10 p.m.—(Beverley Hughes.) 8 Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, Etc.) Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Asylum and Immigration (Treatment of Claimants, Etc.) Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee. Amendment (No. 48) proposed to the Bill, in page 2, line 4, to leave out from the word ‘if' to the word ‘he' in line 5 and insert the words ‘at a leave or asylum interview', instead thereof.—(Beverley Hughes.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made. And it being one and a quarter hours after the commencement of proceedings on the Bill, the Deputy Speaker put the Question already proposed from the Chair, pursuant to Order [this day]:—It was agreed to. Page 160      Monday 1st March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top The Deputy Speaker then proceeded to put forthwith the Question on an Amendment selected by the Speaker for separate Division. Another Amendment (No. 99) proposed to the Bill, in page 2, line 30, at the end, to insert the words ‘(4A) Where a person is charged with an offence under subsections (1) and (2) above, and relies on a defence under subsections (3) and (4) above, if the person adduces evidence which is sufficient to raise an issue with respect to the matter, the court or jury shall assume that the defence is satisfied unless the prosecution proves beyond reasonable doubt that it is not.'.—(Mr Mark Oaten.) Question put, That the Amendment be made. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Bob Russell, Annette Brooke: 56. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Jim Murphy, Paul Clark: 309. The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Question on the remaining Amendments moved by a Minister of the Crown to be disposed of at that hour. Other Amendments (Nos. 49 to 52, 34, 53, 24, 54, 25, 55, 58 to 73, 28, 37, 29, 56, 57, 26, 35, 27 and 36) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 23) proposed to the Bill, in page 8, line 5, to leave out Clause No. 7.—(Mr Hilton Dawson.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made. And it being two and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings on the Bill, the Deputy Speaker put the Question already proposed from the Chair. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Neil Gerrard, Ms Karen Buck: 82. Tellers for the Noes, Gillian Merron, Margaret Moran: 444. The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Question on the remaining Amendments moved by a Minister of the Crown to be disposed of at that hour. Other Amendments (Nos. 74 to 77) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 30) proposed to the Bill, in page 11, line 6, to leave out Clause No. 11.—(Mr Mark Oaten.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made; And it being Nine o'clock, the Deputy Speaker put the Question already proposed from the Chair. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Richard Younger-Ross, Annette Brooke: 97. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Charlotte Atkins: 303. The Speaker proceeded to put forthwith the Questions on Amendments and a new Clause which had been selected for separate Division. Another Amendment (No. 93) proposed to the Bill, in page 11, line 25, at the end, to insert the words— ‘(5A) A party to the Tribunal's decision may apply within 7 days to the High Court or, in Scotland, to the Court of Session for review of the Tribunal's decision on the ground that the Tribunal made an error of law. (5B) Where an application is made under this subsection— (a) it shall be determined by a single judge by reference only to written submissions, unless the court on receiving such submissions is of the opinion that there are exceptional reasons for an oral hearing; (b) the judge may affirm or reverse the Tribunal's decision, or remit for rehearing to the Tribunal; (c) if, in any application to the High Court, the judge thinks that the application had no merit he shall issue a certificate under this paragraph. (5C) Where the High Court or in Scotland the Court of Session affirms or reverses a review under this section a party to the review may bring an appeal as a point of law within 7 days— (a) where the original decision was that of a judge of the Court of Session in Scotland to the Inner House of that Court; or (b) in any other case, to the Court of Appeal. Page 161      Monday 1st March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top (5D) An appeal under subsection (5C) may be brought only with the permission of— (a) the court that made it, or (b) the court referred to in subsection (5C)(a) or (b) if the High Court or Court of Session in Scotland refuses permission. (5E) An application made under subsection (5D)(b) must be made within 7 days of the refusal of permission to appeal by the High Court or Court of Appeal.'—(Mr Dominic Grieve.) Question put, That the Amendment be made. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Hugh Robertson, Mr Mark Francois: 188. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Charlotte Atkins: 310. Another Amendment (No. 33) proposed to the Bill, in page 41, line 24, in the second column, at the beginning, to insert the words ‘Section 55.'.—(Mr Neil Gerrard.) Question put, That the Amendment be made. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Neil Gerrard, Ms Karen Buck: 84. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Charlotte Atkins: 305. A Clause (NC8) (Initial decisions)—(Mr Humfrey Malins)—brought up and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be added to the Bill. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Hugh Robertson, Mr Mark Francois: 179. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Charlotte Atkins: 317. The Speaker proceeded to put forthwith the Questions on the remaining Amendments and new Clauses moved by a Minister of the Crown. Other Amendments (Nos. 78 to 86, 38, 87 to 89, 39 to 45, 90, 91, 46 and 47) made to the Bill. Clauses (NC2) (Provision of immigration services), (NC3) (Offences: advice of Director of Public Prosecutions), (NC4) (Enforcement powers: retention of documents), (NC5) (Seamen and aircrews: right of appeal), (NC6) (Control of entry) and (NC7) (Appeal from within United Kingdom)—(Mr John Heppell)—brought up, read the first time and added to the Bill. 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 Speaker put the Question pursuant to Order [this day]. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Gillian Merron, Mr Nick Ainger: 304. Tellers for the Noes, Richard Younger-Ross, Annette Brooke: 65. So the Question was agreed to. The Bill was accordingly read the third time, and passed. 9 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 Firearms (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 9th February, be approved—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. 10 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 Prison (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 9th February, be approved—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. 11 Northern Ireland,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 115 (Northern Ireland Grand Committee (delegated legislation)), That the draft Budget (Northern Ireland) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 5th February, be approved—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. 12 Police,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Independent Police Complaints Commission (Investigatory Powers) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 5th February, be approved—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. Page 162      Monday 1st March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top 13 Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Standing Committees on Delegated Legislation), That the draft Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 (Continuance in force of sections 21 to 23) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 20th January, be approved—(Bridget Prentice); And the Speaker's opinion as to the decision of the Question being challenged, the Division was deferred till Wednesday 3rd March, pursuant to Orders [28th June 2001 and 6th November 2003 (Deferred Divisions)]. 14 Level of Certain Heavy Metals and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Ambient Air,— A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Standing Committees), That this House takes note of European Union Document No. 11645/03, draft Directive relating to arsenic, cadmium, mercury, nickel and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in ambient air; and supports the Government objectives of ensuring appropriate levels of protection for human health and of the environment but also resisting unnecessary measures that might have a disproportionate effect on United Kingdom industry—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. 15 Science and Technology,—Ordered, That Mr Tom Harris be discharged from the Science and Technology Committee and Kate Hoey be added.—(Mr John McWilliam, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.) 16 Public Petitions,—A Public Petition from Dibden residents against the erection of a TETRA telecommunications mast by Airwave mmO2 at Home Farm was presented and read; and ordered to lie upon the Table and to be printed. 17 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Bridget Prentice.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till nine minutes to Eleven o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 10.51 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 1 Open Spaces,—Draft Royal Parks and Other Open Spaces (Amendment) Regulations 2004 [by Act] [Secretary Tessa Jowell]. 2 Terms and Conditions of Employment,—Statutory Paternity Pay and Statutory Adoption Pay (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 488), dated 26th February 2004 [by Act] [Ms Secretary Hewitt]. Other Papers: 3 Air Force (Constitution),—Amendment List 8 to Regulations for the Royal Air Force Aeromedical Evacuation Service: Air Publication 3394 (Third Edition) [by Act] [Mr Secretary Hoon]. 4 Health and Personal Social Services (Northern Ireland),—Summary of Health, Personal Social Services and Special Agencies Accounts for 2001–02 [by Statutory Instrument]; to be printed [No. 334] [Mr Secretary Murphy]. 5 Judicature (Northern Ireland),—Accounts of Funds in Court in Northern Ireland for 2000–02, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 398] [Clerk of the House]. 6 National Audit,—Reports by the Comptroller and Auditor General on— (1) Evaluation of Regulatory Impact Assessments Compendium Report 2003–04, and (2) HM Customs and Excise: Tackling VAT Fraud [by Act]; to be printed [Nos. 358 and 357] [Clerk of the House]. 7 Reserve Forces,—Report under section 56(7) of the Reserve Forces Act 1996 on the making of a call-out order under section 56(1) of that Act [by Act] [Mr Secretary Hoon]. Page 163      Monday 1st March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top APPENDIX II Standing Committees Draft Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers' Compensation) (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2004,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Kali Mountford and Mr Simon Thomas from the Third Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mr Ivan Henderson and Adam Price. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Draft Gambling Bill,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Joint Committee on the Draft Gambling Bill; to be printed [No. 139-xvi] [Mr John Greenway]. 2 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Milk Pricing Sub-Committee of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee [Milk Pricing]; to be printed [No. 335-ii] [Mr Michael Jack]. 3 Human Rights,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Joint Committee on Human Rights [Human Rights and Deaths in Custody]; to be printed [No. 209-iv] [Jean Corston]. 4 International Development,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the International Development Committee [Migration and Development]; to be printed [No. 79-vi] [Tony Baldry]. 5 Public Accounts,—(1) Eleventh Report from the Committee of Public Accounts [Helping consumers benefit from competition in telecommunications]; to be printed, together with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 405]; (2) Twelfth Report from the Committee [Getting it right: Improving decision-making and appeals in social security benefits]; to be printed, together with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 406]; (3) Thirteenth Report from the Committee [Excess Votes 2002–03]; to be printed, together with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 407]; and (4) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Strategic Rail Authority: Improving passenger rail services through new trains]; to be printed [No. 408-i] [Mr Edward Leigh]. 6 Science and Technology,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Science and Technology Committee [Scientific Publications]; to be printed [No. 399-i] [Dr Ian Gibson]. 7 Work and Pensions,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Sub-Committee of the Work and Pensions Committee [DWP's Administration of IT Projects]; to be printed [No. 311-iv] [Sir Archy Kirkwood]. Page 164      Monday 1st March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top [No. 47.] Tuesday 2nd March 2004. The House met at half-past Eleven o'clock PRAYERS. 1 Liaison Committee,—Mr Alan Williams reported, pursuant to Standing Order No. 145 (Liaison Committee), That the Committee had directed him to report the following recommendation for the allocation of time for the consideration of Estimates on an allotted day (being the second allotted day in the present Session of Parliament): That a day not later than 18th March be allotted for the consideration of the following Supplementary Estimates for the financial year 2003–04: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, in so far as it relates to biofuels; Department for Transport, in so far as it relates to aviation services. Report to lie upon the Table. 2 Employment Relations Bill,—Mr Eric Forth reported from Standing Committee D, That it had gone through the Employment Relations Bill, and made Amendments thereunto, and had amended the Title, as follows: A Bill to amend the law relating to the recognition of trade unions and the taking of industrial action; to make provision about means of voting in ballots under the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992; to amend provisions of that Act relating to rights of members and non-members of trade unions and to make other provision about rights of trade union members, employees and workers; to make further provision concerning the enforcement of legislation relating to minimum wages; to make further provision about proceedings before and appeals from the Certification Officer; to make further provision about the amalgamation of trade unions; to make provision facilitating the administration of trade unions and the carrying out by them of their functions; and for connected purposes. Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee, to be considered to-morrow; and to be printed [Bill 61]. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 412]. 3 Fire and Rescue Services Bill,—Sir Nicholas Winterton reported from Standing Committee G, That it had gone through the Fire and Rescue Services Bill, and made Amendments thereunto. Bill, as amended in the Standing Committee, to be considered to-morrow; and to be printed [Bill 62]. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to be printed [No. 413]. 4 Higher Education Bill,—Mr Roger Gale reported from Standing Committee H, That it had agreed to the following Resolution in respect of the Higher Education Bill: That the Standing Committee recommends that the Order of the House of 27th January (Higher Education Bill (Programme)) be further amended by the substitution in paragraph 2 (time for conclusion of proceedings in Standing Committee) for the words ‘Thursday 4th March' of the words ‘Tuesday 9th March'. Report, together with Resolution, to lie upon the Table. 5 Third Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Bill O'Brien reported from the Third Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers' Compensation) (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2004. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 6 Fisheries Jurisdiction,—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to make provision for withdrawal from the Common Fisheries Policy of the European Union; to amend the Fisheries Limits Act 1976; to make provision about the exercise of functions under that Act by Scottish Ministers, the National Assembly for Wales, Northern Ireland Ministers and the Secretary of State; to provide that that Act shall have effect regardless of the provisions of the European Communities Act 1972; to define English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish waters; and for connected purposes: And that Mr Alex Salmond, Mr Roy Beggs, Mr Alistair Carmichael, Mr Nigel Dodds, Mr Kelvin Hopkins, Mr Elfyn Llwyd, Mr Eddie McGrady, Mr Austin Mitchell, Angus Robertson, Mr Anthony Steen, Mr Michael Weir and Ann Winterton do prepare and bring it in. 7 Fisheries Jurisdiction Bill,—Mr Alex Salmond accordingly presented a Bill to make provision for withdrawal from the Common Fisheries Policy of the European Union; to amend the Fisheries Limits Act 1976; to make provision about the exercise of functions under that Act by Scottish Ministers, the National Assembly for Wales, Northern Ireland Ministers and the Secretary of State; to provide that that Act shall have effect regardless of the Page 165      Tuesday 2nd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top   provisions of the European Communities Act 1972; to define English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish waters; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 21st May and to be printed [Bill 64]. 8 Pensions Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Pensions Bill; And a Motion being made, and the Question being proposed, That the Bill be now read a second time; An Amendment was proposed to the Question, to leave out from the word ‘That' to the end of the Question and add the words ‘this House declines to give a Second Reading to the Pensions Bill because it fails to provide encouragement for individuals to save for their retirement or for companies to keep open existing pension schemes or start new ones and does nothing to mitigate the effect on the savings culture of the expansion of means-tested benefits in retirement; it omits measures permitting simplification and amendment of pension schemes' terms, abolishing compulsory AVC provision, simplifying anti-franking provisions, permitting people to continue working part-time for a company after retirement, abolishing or modifying Guaranteed Minimum Pensions, and new vesting arrangements; and further fails to provide help for the estimated 60,000 people who have already lost all or most of their pension entitlement', instead thereof.—(Mr David Willetts.) And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Mark Field, Angela Watkinson: 154. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Mr Vernon Coaker: 388. So the Question was negatived. And the Main Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 62 (Amendment on second or third reading):—It was agreed to. The Bill was accordingly read a second time. 9 Pensions Bill (Programme),—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Orders [28th June 2001 and 6th November 2003 (Programming of Bills)], That the following provisions shall apply to the Pensions Bill: Committal 1. The Bill shall be committed to a Standing Committee. Standing Committee 2. Proceedings in the Standing Committee shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion on 22nd April 2004. 3. The Standing Committee shall have leave to sit twice on the first day on which it meets. Consideration and Third Reading 4. Proceedings on consideration shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion one hour before the moment of interruption on the day on which those proceedings are commenced. 5. Proceedings on Third Reading shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought to a conclusion at the moment of interruption on the day on which proceedings on consideration are commenced. 6. Sessional Order B (programming committees) made by the House on 28th June 2001 shall not apply to proceedings on consideration and Third Reading. Other proceedings 7. Any other proceedings on the Bill (including any proceedings on consideration of Lords Amendments or on any further message from the Lords) may be programmed—(Bridget Prentice); The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Mr Vernon Coaker: 378. Tellers for the Noes, Angela Watkinson, Mr Mark Field: 153. So the Question was agreed to. 10 Pensions Bill [Money],—Her Majesty's Recommendation having been signified to the proposed Motion relating to Pensions Bill [Money]; A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 52 (Money and ways and means resolutions in connection with bills), That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Pensions Bill, it is expedient to authorise the payment out of money provided by Parliament of— (a) any expenditure of the Secretary of State or the Lord Chancellor under the Act, and Page 166      Tuesday 2nd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top (b) any increase attributable to the Act in the sums payable under any other Act out of money so provided—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. 11 Pensions Bill [Ways and Means],—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 52 (Money and ways and means resolutions in connection with bills), That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Pensions Bill, it is expedient to authorise— (1) the levying of charges under the Act— (a) for the purpose of meeting expenditure of the Secretary of State relating to the establishment or expenses of the Board of the Pension Protection Fund; (b) for the purposes of the Pension Protection Fund maintained under the Act; (c) for the purpose of meeting expenditure payable out of the Fraud Compensation Fund maintained under the Act; (2) the levying of charges under the Pension Schemes Act 1993 for the purpose of meeting— (a) the expenses of the Pensions Regulator (including the expenses of establishing it); (b) the costs of the legal assistance scheme established in connection with proceedings before the Pensions Regulator Tribunal; (c) the expenses of the Pensions Compensation Board; (3) the making of payments into the Consolidated Fund—(Bridget Prentice); The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Mr Vernon Coaker: 326. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Eric Forth, Mr Nigel Evans: 20. So the Question was agreed to. 12 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 Rates (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 10th February, be approved—(Bridget Prentice):—It was agreed to. 13 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Bridget Prentice.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till ten minutes past Eight o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 8.10 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 Social Security,—Draft Jobseeker's Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 2004 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Mr Secretary Smith]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 2 Betting, Gaming and Lotteries,—(1) Gaming Act (Variation of Fees) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 531), and (2) Lotteries (Gaming Board Fees) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 532) dated 1st March 2004 [by Act] [Secretary Tessa Jowell]. 3 Health and Safety,—Health and Safety (Fees) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 456), dated 23rd February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Smith]. 4 Insolvency,—(1) Insolvency Proceedings (Monetary Limits) (Amendment) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 547), dated 27th February 2004 [by Act] [Ms Secretary Hewitt], and (2) Insurers (Reorganisation and Winding Up) (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 546), dated 2nd March 2004 [by Act] [Ruth Kelly]. Other Papers: 5 Consumer Protection,—Report by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry on consumer safety for the period 1st April 1998 to 31st March 2003 [by Act]; to be printed [No. 411] [Ms Secretary Hewitt]. 6 Coroners,—(1) Berkshire (Coroners' Districts) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 536), dated 29th February 2004, (2) Cumbria (Coroners' Districts) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 458), dated 23rd February 2004, and Page 167      Tuesday 2nd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top (3) Cumbria (Coroners' Districts) (No. 2) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 535), dated 29th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Blunkett]. 7 Social Security Administration,—Report by the Social Security Advisory Committee under Section 174(1) of the Social Security Administration Act 1992 and a statement by the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on the Draft Jobseeker's Allowance (Amendment) Regulations 2004 [by Command] [Cm. 6145] [Mr Secretary Smith]. APPENDIX II Standing Committees 1 Draft Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers' Compensation) (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2004,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Brian H. Donohoe, Mr Kevan Jones and Mr Geoffrey Robinson from the Third Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr Tony McWalter and Mr Neil Turner. 2 Sustainable and Secure Buildings Bill,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr David Heyes from Standing Committee C (nominated in respect of the Bill); and nominated in substitution Mr John Hayes. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Constitutional Affairs,—Third Report from the Constitutional Affairs Committee [Work of the Committee 2003]; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 410] [Mr A. J. Beith]. 2 Defence and Home Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Defence and Home Affairs Committees [Homeland Security]; to be printed [No. 417-i] [Mr Bruce George]. 3 Draft Gambling Bill,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Joint Committee on the Draft Gambling Bill; to be printed [No. 139-xvii] [Mr John Greenway]. 4 Environmental Audit,—(1) Second Report from the Environmental Audit Committee [GM Food—Evaluating the Farm Scale Trials], 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. 90]; and (2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Water: the Periodic Review 2004 and the Environmental Programme]; to be printed [No. 416-i] [Mr Peter Ainsworth]. 5 Foreign Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Foreign Affairs Committee [South Africa]; to be printed [No. 117-iii] [Mr Donald Anderson]. 6 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister: Housing, Planning, Local Government and the Regions,—Memoranda submitted to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister: Housing, Planning, Local Government and the Regions Committee [Postal Voting], to be printed [No. 400-II] [Andrew Bennett]. 7 Statutory Instruments,—Tenth Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, together with Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be printed [No. 82-x] [Mr David Tredinnick]. 8 Trade and Industry,—(1) Third Report from the Trade and Industry Committee [Resilience of the National Electricity Network], together with Appendices; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 69]; and (2) Third Special Report from the Committee [Government Observations on the Sixteenth Report from the Committee, Session 2002–03, on Rewards for Failure]; to be printed [No. 415] [Mr Martin O'Neill]. [No. 47; WH, No. 27] Tuesday 2nd March 2004. The House sitting in Westminster Hall The sitting commenced at half-past Nine o'clock. Adjournment,—Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Mr Nick Ainger.) And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 4.29 p.m. Page 168      Tuesday 2nd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top [No. 48.] Wednesday 3rd March 2004. The House met at half-past Eleven o'clock. PRAYERS. 1 Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr John Cummings reported from the Second Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Local Elections (Ordinary Day of Election 2004) Order 2004, the draft Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) England (Amendment) Regulations 2004, the draft Local Authorities (Mayoral Elections) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2004, the draft European Parliamentary Elections Regulations 2004, and the draft Representation of the People (Combination of Polls) (England and Wales) Regulations 2004. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 2 Fourth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Kevin Hughes reported from the Fourth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Employment Act 2002 (Dispute Resolution) Regulations 2004. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 3 Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Jonathan Sayeed reported from the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2003 (S.I., 2003, No. 3311). Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 4 Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Eric Illsley reported from the Sixth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Children (Leaving Care) Social Security Benefits (Scotland) Regulations 2004. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 5 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: The Lords communicate that they have considered the Commons Message of 25th February in respect of the London Local Authorities Bill [Lords] and have come to the following Resolution in respect of the said Bill: That, notwithstanding anything in the Private Business Standing Orders or practice of the House, the promoters of the Bill, which originated in the House of Lords in Session 2001–02 and which has passed all its stages in that House but not in the House of Commons, may proceed with the Bill in the present Session; That the petition for the Bill be deemed to have been deposited; That all Standing Orders applicable be deemed to have been complied with; That the Bill be deposited in the Office of the Clerk of the Parliaments not later than noon on Thursday 4th March with a declaration annexed, signed by the agent, stating that it is the same in every respect as the Bill passed by the House of Lords; and That the proceedings on the Bill in the present Session be pro forma in regard to every stage through which the Bill had passed in the last Session and that no new fees be charged. 6 House Building (Targets),—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to enable local planning authorities to determine the number of houses built in their areas: And that Bob Spink, Mr Peter Lilley, Mr Eric Pickles, Mr Simon Burns, Mr David Amess, Mr Mark Francois, Sir Teddy Taylor, Andrew Rosindell, Angela Watkinson, Mr John Baron, Ann Winterton and Mr John Redwood do prepare and bring it in. 7 House Building (Targets) Bill,—Bob Spink accordingly presented a Bill to enable local planning authorities to determine the number of houses built in their areas: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 18th June and to be printed [Bill 65]. 8 Opposition Day [6th 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. Trade Justice for the Developing World,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House shares the concern of the Trade Justice Movement about the plight of the poorest people in the world, and congratulates the Movement on bringing their conditions to the attention of the public; notes with concern the fact that more than one billion people live on less than one dollar a day, that life expectancy in many African countries is declining, that 28 million people in Africa have HIV/AIDS, and that the poorest countries' share of world trade has fallen sharply in the last two decades; recognises that the combination of trade distorting subsidies by rich countries Page 169      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top and barriers to products from poor countries have gravely damaged the latter; believes that trade liberalisation and increased international trade offer the best hope of alleviating poverty in the developing world; regrets the breakdown of the WTO talks in Cancu"n; and urges the Government both to press for the talks to restart and to publish its proposals for the reform of agricultural subsidies and the reduction of trade barriers to give poor countries the fair deal on international trade that will allow them to compete and grow—(Mr John Bercow); 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 this debate and congratulates the Trade Justice Movement on its efforts to raise public awareness of this vital issue; reiterates the commitment made in the White Paper Eliminating World Poverty: Making Globalisation Work for the Poor to improve international trade rules; urges the European Union to make further progress on reforming the Common Agriculture Policy regimes for cotton, sugar, tobacco and olive oil; welcomes the UK's call for action on HIV/AIDS; congratulates the Government on the £160 million it has allocated to trade-related capacity building in developing countries since 1998; welcomes the fact that the UK's aid budget for Africa will rise to over £1 billion by 2005; welcomes the launch of a new initiative, the Commission for Africa, to take a fresh look at the challenges Africa faces; notes that a successful Doha Round could contribute substantially to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals; congratulates the Government on the lead it has taken within the EU and the WTO to promote free and fair trade; believes that significant progress must be made to improve access for developing country exports to both developed and developing country markets, including through substantial reductions in trade distorting agricultural subsidies; calls on all WTO members to continue to demonstrate their commitment to the Doha Development Agenda; and underlines this House's commitment to ensuring the Doha Round produces real benefits for the poor', instead thereof.—(Secretary Hilary Benn.) And the Question being put, That the original words stand part of the Question; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Mark Field: 200. Tellers for the Noes, Derek Twigg, Mr John Heppell: 326. 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 welcomes this debate and congratulates the Trade Justice Movement on its efforts to raise public awareness of this vital issue; reiterates the commitment made in the White Paper Eliminating World Poverty: Making Globalisation Work for the Poor to improve international trade rules; urges the European Union to make further progress on reforming the Common Agriculture Policy regimes for cotton, sugar, tobacco and olive oil; welcomes the UK's call for action on HIV/AIDS; congratulates the Government on the £160 million it has allocated to trade-related capacity building in developing countries since 1998; welcomes the fact that the UK's aid budget for Africa will rise to over £1 billion by 2005; welcomes the launch of a new initiative, the Commission for Africa, to take a fresh look at the challenges Africa faces; notes that a successful Doha Round could contribute substantially to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals; congratulates the Government on the lead it has taken within the EU and the WTO to promote free and fair trade; believes that significant progress must be made to improve access for developing country exports to both developed and developing country markets, including through substantial reductions in trade distorting agricultural subsidies; calls on all WTO members to continue to demonstrate their commitment to the Doha Development Agenda; and underlines this House's commitment to ensuring the Doha Round produces real benefits for the poor. Protection of Vulnerable Children,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House notes that it is now more than 13 months since Lord Laming's Report on Victoria Climbie" and that 25th February 2004 marked the fourth anniversary of her tragic death; regrets that the Government has wasted too much time before bringing forward practical measures to make vulnerable children safer despite Laming's contention that 84 of his recommendations could be implemented within six months and even now social services departments are in limbo awaiting Government recommendations in the Children's Bill; is alarmed at the Government's complete inability to clarify the position on data sharing between agencies, which is crucial to child protection measures; condemns the Government's failure to address the crisis in recruitment of child protection social workers without whom the necessary improvements will not be achievable; is gravely concerned at their response to the recent Appeal Court judgements involving children taken away from parents on questionable Page 170      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top expert witness testimonies, which has failed to take account of potentially thousands of other miscarriages of justice in the family courts; notes the additional pressures that this is adding on already overstretched social services departments; further notes the continued failure of the Government to produce the long promised National Service Framework for Children; condemns recent moves to cut already committed grants to important Children's Fund projects working with vulnerable children; and calls upon the Government to give vulnerable children the priority they need and deserve—(Tim Loughton); 9 Deferred Divisions,—The Deputy Speaker announced the results of the Division which had been deferred to this day, pursuant to the Orders of the House [28th June 2001 and 6th November 2003 (Deferred Divisions)]: Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism,—That the draft Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 (Continuance in force of sections 21 to 23) Order 2004, which was laid before this House on 20th January, be approved. Ayes: 370. Noes: 49. So the Question was agreed to. 10 Opposition Day,—Protection of Vulnerable Children,—The Question being again proposed; 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 fact that this Government acknowledged the importance of children's issues by appointing the first ever Minister with responsibility for children and young people; congratulates the Government's commitment to Lord Laming's report on safeguarding children, shown in the Green Paper Every Child Matters, and its determination to turn words into action by publishing the Children's Bill in the other place today; acknowledges that the £885 million Quality Protects Programme is already improving the life chances of vulnerable children; commends the Government for the 8.7% increase in funding for children's social services in the next financial year; and is alarmed by the Opposition's proposals to freeze spending on children's services', instead thereof.—(Margaret Hodge.) And the Question being proposed, That the original words stand part of the Question; Mr Patrick McLoughlin 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, Gregory Barker, Mr Peter Atkinson: 189. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Mr Nick Ainger: 329. 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 Fraser Kemp, Mr Nick Ainger: 364. Tellers for the Noes, Gregory Barker, Mr Mark Francois: 141. So the Question was agreed to. The Speaker forthwith declared the Main Question, as amended, to be agreed to. Resolved, That this House welcomes the fact that this Government acknowledged the importance of children's issues by appointing the first ever Minister with responsibility for children and young people; congratulates the Government's commitment to Lord Laming's report on safeguarding children, shown in the Green Paper Every Child Matters, and its determination to turn words into action by publishing the Children's Bill in the other place today; acknowledges that the £885 million Quality Protects Programme is already improving the life chances of vulnerable children; commends the Government for the 8.7% increase in funding for children's social services in the next financial year; and is alarmed by the Opposition's proposals to freeze spending on children's services. 11 Higher Education (Programme) (No. 3),—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Orders [28th June 2001 and 6th November 2003 (Programming of Bills)], That in accordance with the Resolution of the Standing Committee of 2nd March 2004, the Programme Order of 27th January in relation to the Higher Education Bill shall be further amended by the substitution in paragraph 2 (time for conclusion of proceedings in Standing Committee) for the words ‘Thursday 4th March' of the words ‘Tuesday 9th March'—(Bridget Prentice); Page 171      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Fraser Kemp, Mr Nick Ainger: 347. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Mr Keith Simpson: 119. So the Question was agreed to. 12 Business of the House,—Ordered, That, at the sitting on Tuesday 9th March, paragraph (2) of Standing Order No. 31 (Questions on amendments) shall apply to the proceedings on any Motions in the name of Mr Alex Salmond or Mr Elfyn Llwyd as if the day were an Opposition Day; and proceedings on such Motions may continue, though opposed, for six hours after the first of them has been entered upon, or until Seven o'clock, whichever is the later.—(Bridget Prentice.) 13 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Bridget Prentice.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till six minutes past Eight o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 8.06 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 Banks and Banking,—Draft Cash Ratio Deposits (Value Bands and Ratios) Order 2004 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Mr Paul Boateng]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 2 Health and Safety,—Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (Application to Environmentally Hazardous Substances) (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 463), dated 26th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Darling]. 3 Local Government,—(1) Local Authorities (Capital Finance) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 459), dated 25th February 2004; and (2) Local Authorities (Goods and Services) (Public Bodies) (England) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 485), dated 27th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. 4 National Health Service,—(1) Kingston Primary Care Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 471), (2) Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells National Health Service Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 467), (3) North West Surrey Mental Health National Health Service Partnership Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 465), (4) West Kent National Health Service and Social Care Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 468), and (5) West Sussex Health and Social Care National Health Service Trust (Transfer of Trust Property), Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 466), dated 25th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Reid]. 5 Pensions,—Pensions Increase (Valuation Tribunal Service) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 558), dated 3rd March 2004 [by Act] [Mr Paul Boateng]. Other Papers: 6 Culture, Media and Sport,—Department of Culture, Media and Sport Minute approving the Museums, Archives and Libraries Council as a borrower under the Government Indemnity Scheme [by Command] [Secretary Tessa Jowell]. 7 Public Petitions,—Observations by the Deputy Prime Minister on: (1) the Petition [9th February] from Miss Wendy Eydman, Councillor Dorothy Best and others for greater facilities for horse riders in Castle Point, and (2) the Petition [11th February] from residents of the Parliamentary constituency of Brentwood and Ongar and areas served by the Ongar Fire Station against the proposal to change the Fire Station to part-time operation [by Standing Order]; to be printed [Clerk of the House]. Page 172      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top 8 School Standards and Framework,—Account of North Somerset (Weston-Super-Mare) Education Action Zone for the period 31st March to 31st August 2003, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 409] [Clerk of the House]. APPENDIX II Standing Committees 1 Gender Recognition Bill [Lords]: (1) The Speaker has allocated the Bill to Standing Committee A, and has appointed Mrs Marion Roe and David Taylor Chairmen; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Hugh Bayley, Geraint Davies, Maria Eagle, Dr Evan Harris, Lynne Jones, Mrs Eleanor Laing, Mr David Lammy, Siobhain McDonagh, Kali Mountford, Mr Stephen Pound, Bridget Prentice, Andrew Selous, Mr Gary Streeter, Angela Watkinson, Mr Shaun Woodward and Richard Younger-Ross. 2 Pensions Bill: (1) The Speaker has allocated the Bill to Standing Committee B, and has appointed Mr Win Griffiths and Mr James Cran Chairmen; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated twenty-five Members to serve on the Committee: Vera Baird, Gregory Barker, Kevin Brennan, David Cairns, Mr Jim Cunningham, Mrs Janet Dean, Mr Huw Edwards, Mr Fabian Hamilton, Paul Holmes, Mr Kevan Jones, Ms Sally Keeble, Mr Piara S. Khabra, Mr John MacDougall, Margaret Moran, Mr George Osborne, Mr Chris Pond, Adam Price, John Robertson, Mr Andrew Rosindell, Mr David Ruffley, Mr Bill Tynan, Mr Robert Walter, Mr Nigel Waterson, Steve Webb and Malcolm Wicks. 3 Gangmasters (Licensing) Bill,—The Speaker has allocated the Bill to Standing Committee C. 4 Highways (Obstruction by Body Corporate) Bill: (1) The Speaker has allocated the Bill to Standing Committee F (transferred from Standing Committee C); and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr David Atkinson, Norman Baker, Andrew Bennett, Peter Bottomley, Peter Bradley, Valerie Davey, Jim Dobbin, Mr Michael Jabez Foster, Andrew George, Mr James Gray, Charles Hendry, Mr David Kidney, Mr David Lepper, Alun Michael, Laura Moffatt and Dr Desmond Turner. 5 Draft Community Legal Service (Scope) Regulations 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the First Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Kevin Hughes Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Alistair Carmichael, Valerie Davey, Geraint Davies, Mr Michael Fallon, Mr Adrian Flook, Mr Dominic Grieve, Mr David Heath, Mr David Lammy, Mr John Lyons, Anne Picking, Bridget Prentice, Mr Malcolm Savidge, Jim Sheridan, Mark Tami, Mr Paul Truswell and Angela Watkinson. 6 Draft Social Security (Intensive Activity Period 50 to 59 Pilot) Regulations 2004 and the draft Social Security (Intensive Activity Period 50 to 59 Pilot) (No. 2) Regulations 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Second 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: Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Desmond Browne, Mr Colin Challen, Mrs Louise Ellman, Barbara Follett, Mr John Heppell, Paul Holmes, Mr David Lepper, Mr Ian Liddell-Grainger, Mr Peter Lilley, Chris McCafferty, Kali Mountford, Mr George Osborne, Mr Ernie Ross, Steve Webb and David Winnick. 7 Draft Agricultural Statistics (Northern Ireland) Order 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Fourth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Eric Illsley Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: David Burnside, Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Mr Vernon Coaker, Mr David Crausby, Mr Tam Dalyell, Mr Mark Field, Mrs Cheryl Gillan, Huw Irranca-Davies, Mrs Helen Liddell, Rob Marris, Mr Denis Murphy, Lembit O­pik, Mr Ian Pearson, Mr Sio¤n Simon, Dr Gavin Strang and Mr John Taylor. Page 173      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top 8 Draft Renewables Obligation (Amendment) Order 2003: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Fifth 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: Charlotte Atkins, Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Roger Berry, Malcolm Bruce, Mr Jonathan Djanogly, Mr David Drew, Angela Eagle, Mr Nick Gibb, Ian Lucas, Joyce Quin, Mr Laurence Robertson, Ian Stewart, Mr Andrew Stunell, Mr Stephen Timms, Joan Walley and Mr Mike Wood. 9 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme Regulations 2003 (S.I., 2003, No. 3311),—The Committee of Selection has discharged Ann Clwyd from the Fifth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mr Mark Hendrick. 10 Draft Social Security (Basic Skills Training Pilot) Regulations 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Sixth 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: Mr Peter Atkinson, Richard Burden, Colin Burgon, Mr Tony Colman, Mr Brian H. Donohoe, Paul Holmes, Mr Brian Jenkins, Mr John Maples, Mr Austin Mitchell, Margaret Moran, Kali Mountford, Mr George Osborne, Mr Chris Pond, Mr Michael Trend, Steve Webb and Derek Wyatt. 11 The draft Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000 (Renewal of Temporary Provision) Order 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the Order to the Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Eric Forth Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Crispin Blunt, Mr Alistair Carmichael, Mr Tony Clarke, Mr Vernon Coaker, Jim Dowd, Mr Nigel Evans, Mr Mark Field, Huw Irranca-Davies, Ms Sally Keeble, Jane Kennedy, Mr David Lidington, Chris Mole, Dr Doug Naysmith, Christine Russell, Mr David Trimble and David Wright. 12 Draft Paternity and Adoption Leave (Amendment) Regulations 2004, and the draft Statutory Paternity Pay and Statutory Adoption Pay (Weekly Rates) (Amendment) Regulations 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Eighth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Eric Illsley Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Charlotte Atkins, Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Kevin Barron, Mr Henry Bellingham, Malcolm Bruce, Brian Cotter, Jon Cruddas, Mrs Lorna Fitzsimons, Jane Griffiths, Mr Piara S. Khabra, Rosemary McKenna, Mr Archie Norman, Linda Perham, Ian Stewart, Mr Gerry Sutcliffe and Mr Ian Taylor. 13 Draft Tax Credits Up-rating Regulations 2004, the draft Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance Up-rating Order 2004 and the draft Child Benefit and Guardian's Allowance Up-rating (Northern Ireland) Order 2004: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Ninth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation, and has appointed Mr Nigel Beard Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Peter Atkinson, Mr Frank Doran, Mr Stephen Dorrell, Jim Fitzpatrick, Mr David Heyes, Mr David Laws, Dan Norris, Mr George Osborne, Dawn Primarolo, Joan Ruddock, Mr Mohammad Sarwar, Phil Sawford, Mr Richard Shepherd, The Reverend Martin Smyth, Paddy Tipping and Mr Tom Watson. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Defence,—Third Report from the Defence Committee [Lessons of Iraq]; together with the 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. 57] [Mr Bruce George]. 2 Draft Disability Discrimination Bill,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Joint Committee on the Draft Disability Discrimination Bill; to be printed [No. 352-v]; and (2) Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be printed [No. 352-vi] [Mr Tom Clarke]. Page 174      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top 3 Education and Skills,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Education and Skills Committee [National Skills Strategy: 14–19 Education]; to be printed [No. 197-v] [Mr Barry Sheerman]. 4 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,—(1) Fourth Special Report from the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee [Government's Reply to the First Report from the Committee, Session 2003–04, on Water Pricing]; to be printed [No. 420]; (2) Memorandum laid before the Committee [Milk Pricing]; and (3) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Agriculture and EU Enlargement]; to be printed [No. 421-i] [Mr Michael Jack]. 5 Environmental Audit,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environmental Audit Committee [Water: the Periodic Review 2004 and the Environmental Programme]; to be printed [No. 416-ii] [Mr Peter Ainsworth]. 6 Northern Ireland Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee [The Parades Commission and Public Processions (Northern Ireland) Act 1998]; to be printed [No. 224-iii] [Mr Michael Mates]. 7 Regulatory Reform,—Fourth Report from the Regulatory Reform Committee [Proposal for the Regulatory Reform (Museum of London) (Location of Premises) Order 2004], together with Appendices; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 414] [Mr Peter Pike]. 8 Scottish Affairs,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Scottish Affairs Committee [The Proposed Whisky Strip Stamp]; to be printed [No. 419-i] [Mrs Irene Adams]. 9 Transport,—(1) Fifth Report from the Transport Committee [Office of Fair Trading Response to the Third Report of the Committee: The Regulation of Licensed Taxis and Private Hire Vehicle Services in the UK]; to be printed, together with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 418]; (2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [School Transport]; to be printed [No. 318-ii]; and (3) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Cars of the Future]; to be printed [No. 319-iii] [Mrs Gwyneth Dunwoody]. [No. 48; WH, No. 28] Wednesday 3rd March 2004. The House sitting in Westminster Hall The sitting commenced at half-past Nine o'clock. Adjournment,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the sitting be now adjourned—(Mr Vernon Coaker); And the sitting having continued for two and a half hours after Two o'clock, it was adjourned without Question put, till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 4.48 p.m. Page 175      Wednesday 3rd March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top [No. 49.] Thursday 4th March 2004. The House met at half-past Eleven o'clock. PRAYERS. 1 Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation,—Mr Eric Forth reported from the Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation the draft Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000 (Renewal of Temporary Provisions) Order 2004. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 2 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: London Local Authorities Bill [Lords],—The Lords have passed a Bill to confer further powers upon local authorities in London; and for related purposes; to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House. 3 Independent Milk Ombudsman, etc., Bill,—Mr Simon Thomas presented a Bill to make provision for the appointment of an Independent Milk Ombudsman and for his functions, including undertaking investigations and research into the price structure of the milk market; to make provision about the milk industry; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 18th June and to be printed [Bill 66]. 4 Estimates,—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 [2nd March] of the Liaison Committee—(Gillian Merron):—It was agreed to. 5 Carers (Equal Opportunities) Bill [Money],—Her Majesty's Recommendation having been signified to the proposed Motion relating to Carers (Equal Opportunities) Bill [Money]; Resolved, That, for the purposes of any Act resulting from the Carers (Equal Opportunities) Bill, 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 by virtue of any other Act.—(Dr Stephen Ladyman.) 6 Adjournment (Women, Equality and Human Rights),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Charlotte Atkins); And it being Six o'clock, the Motion for the adjournment of the House lapsed, without Question put. 7 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Nick Ainger.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till half-past Six o'clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 6.30 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 International Immunities and Privileges,—Draft Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (Immunities and Privileges) Order 2004 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Mr Secretary Straw]. 2 Northern Ireland,—Draft Northern Ireland Act 2000 (Modification) Order 2004 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Mr Secretary Murphy]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 3 Council Tax,—Valuation Tribunals (Amendment) (England) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 482), dated 26th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. 4 Customs and Excise,—Zimbabwe (Sale, Supply, Export, Technical Assistance, Financing and Financial Assistance and Shipment of Equipment) (Penalties and Licences) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 559), dated 1st March 2004 [by Act] [Ms Secretary Hewitt]. Page 176      Thursday 4th March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top 5 Education,—School Governance (Transition from an Interim Executive Board) (England) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 530), dated 1st March 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Clarke]. 6 Fire Services,—Fire Services (Appointments and Promotion) (England and Wales) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 481), dated 25th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Prescott]. Other Papers: 7 Government Resources and Accounts,—Treasury Minute, dated 4th March 2004, directing the application of certain amounts as appropriations in aid of the Estimates for the year ending 31st March 2003 [by Act] [Mr Paul Boateng]. 8 Supply Estimates, 2002–03,—Statement of the sums required to be granted in order to make good excesses on certain grants for 2002–03 [by Command]; to be printed [No. 351] [Mr Paul Boateng]. APPENDIX II Standing Committees 1 Gender Recognition Bill [Lords],—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Gary Streeter from Standing Committee A (nominated in respect of the Bill); and nominated in substitution Mr Tim Boswell. 2 Gender Recognition Bill [Lords] (Programming Sub-Committee),—The Speaker has appointed Mr Tim Boswell, Geraint Davies, Dr Evan Harris, Mr David Lammy, Siobhain McDonagh, Bridget Prentice and Angela Watkinson members of the Programming Sub-Committee of Standing Committee A in respect of the Bill. 3 Pensions Bill,— The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Robert Walter from Standing Committee B (nominated in respect of the Bill); and nominated in substitution Mr Peter Atkinson. 4 Pensions Bill (Programming Sub-Committee),—The Speaker has appointed Gregory Barker, Ms Sally Keeble, Margaret Moran, John Robertson, Mr Nigel Waterson, Steve Webb and Malcolm Wicks members of the Programming Sub-Committee of Standing Committee B in respect of the Bill. 5 Carers (Equal Opportunities) Bill,—The Speaker has appointed Mr Joe Benton Chairman of Standing Committee C in respect of the Bill. 6 Mink Keeping (Prohibition) (England) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 100),—The Speaker has appointed Mr David Amess Chairman of the Third Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation in respect of the Order. 7 Draft Social Security (Contributions) (Re-rating and National Insurance Funds Payments) Order 2004,—The Speaker has appointed Mr Kevin Hughes Chairman of the Fourth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation in respect of the draft Order. 8 Draft Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2000 (Renewal of Temporary Provisions) Order 2004,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Tony Clarke from the Seventh Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mr Ivan Henderson. European Standing Committees 9 The Speaker has appointed Mr Martin Caton Chairman of European Standing Committee A in respect of European Union Document No. 15388/03 on Fisheries: Catch Quotas and Effort Limitation 2004. 10 The Speaker has appointed Mr Nigel Beard Chairman of European Standing Committee B in respect of European Union Document No. 13853/03 on Value Added Tax. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Health,—Minutes of Evidence taken before the Health Committee [The Responsibilities of The Lord Warner, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health] to be printed [No. 397-i] [Mr David Hinchliffe]. 2 Public Administration,—(1) Fourth Report from the Select Committee on Public Administration [Taming the Prerogative: Strengthening Ministerial Accountability to Parliament], together with Appendices; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 422]; and Page 177      Thursday 4th March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top (2) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee [Civil Service Issues]; to be printed [No. 423-i] [Tony Wright]. [No. 49; WH, No. 29] Thursday 4th March 2004. The House sitting in Westminster Hall The sitting commenced at half-past Two o'clock. Adjournment (Overcrowding on Public Transport—Seventh Report from the Transport Committee, Session 2002–03, and the Government's response thereto),—Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Joan Ryan.) And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till Tuesday 9th March. [Adjourned at 5.01 p.m. [No. 50.] Friday 5th March 2004. The House met at half-past Nine o'clock. 1 The Speaker's Absence,—The House being met, and the Speaker having leave of absence pursuant to paragraph (3) of Standing Order No. 3 (Deputy Speaker), Sir Alan Haselhurst, the Chairman of Ways and Means, proceeded to the Table. PRAYERS. 2 The Chairman of Ways and Means took the Chair as Deputy Speaker, pursuant to the Standing Order. 3 Private Bills [Lords],—The Speaker laid upon the Table a certificate by the Clerk in the Private Bill Office that, in respect of the following Bill brought from the House of Lords, the Agents have deposited in the Private Bill Office declarations signed by them, stating that the Bill is the same, in every respect, as the Bill which was brought from the House of Lords in the last Session, viz.: London Local Authorities Bill [Lords]. 4 London Local Authorities Bill [Lords],—The Order [25th February] relating to the London Local Authorities Bill [Lords] being read; The Bill was read the first and second time and committed to the Chairman of Ways and Means. 5 Promotion of Volunteering Bill,—The Promotion of Volunteering Bill was, according to Order, read a second time and stood committed to a Standing Committee. 6 Town and Country Planning (Enforcement Notices and Stop Notices) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Town and Country Planning (Enforcement Notices and Stop Notices) Bill; And a Motion being made, and the Question being proposed, That the Bill be now read a second time; And it being half-past Two o'clock, the Debate stood adjourned. 7 Town and Country Planning (Telecommunications Masts) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Town and Country Planning (Telecommunications Masts) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 21st May. 8 Trespassers on Land (Liability for Damage and Eviction) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Trespassers on Land (Liability for Damage and Eviction) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Friday 15th October. 9 Wild Mammals (Protection) (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Question proposed on 6th February, That the Wild Mammals (Protection) (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill be now read a second time; Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Friday 30th April. Page 178      Friday 5th March 2004       2003-2004      Volume 260      Back to top 10 Telecommunications Masts (Registration) Bill,—The Order of the day being read, for the Second Reading of the Telecommunications Masts (Registration) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 20th May. 11 Adjournment,—Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Gillian Merron.) And accordingly the House, having continued to sit till Three o'clock, adjourned till Monday 8th March. [Adjourned at 3 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 1 Income Tax,—Taxation of Benefits under Government Pilot Schemes (Working Neighbourhoods Pilot and In Work Credit) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 575), dated 4th March 2004 [by Act] [Dawn Primarolo]. 2 National Health Service,—(1) North Essex Mental Health Partnership National Health Service Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 541), dated 28th February 2004, (2) Patients' Forums and Commission for Patient and Public Involvement in Health (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 540), dated 28th February 2004, (3) Public Benefit Corporation (Register of Members) Regulations 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 539), dated 29th February 2004, and (4) Wolverhampton City Primary Care Trust (Transfer of Trust Property) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 542), dated 28th February 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Reid]. 3 Road Traffic,—Road Traffic (Permitted Parking Area and Special Parking Area) (County of Bedfordshire) (Districts of Mid-Bedfordshire and South Bedfordshire) (Amendment) Order 2004 (S.I., 2004, No. 538), dated 1st March 2004 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Darling]. Other Papers: 4 Treaty Series (No. 13, 2004),—Convention, done at Geneva on 21st January 1994, on Customs Treatment of Pool Containers used in International Transport [by Command] [Cm. 6151] [Mr Secretary Straw]. APPENDIX II Standing Committees Draft Social Security (Contributions) (Re-rating and National Insurance Funds Payments) Order 2004,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Paul Holmes from the Fourth Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mr David Laws. Previous Chronological Index Next   Part I Alphabetical Index Part II Alphabetical Index     © Parliamentary copyright 2006 Prepared 16 October 2006