Letter from Rt Hon Peter Hain MP, Leader
of the House of Commons to all Members of Parliament 29 June 2004
You will be aware that the Modernisation Committee
recently announced its intention to embark on a review of sitting
hours.
The original decision by the House in October
2002 to move to earlier sittings only lasts until the end of this
Parliament and Members must vote before the end of the Parliament
as to whether we wish to continue with the current arrangements.
There are many shades of opinion within the
House on sitting hours, not just on the merits of the Chamber's
sitting times on individual days, but on the pattern of the entire
parliamentary week. With this in mind, the Modernisation Committee
has decided to embark on a comprehensive review over the next
few months. It will be taking evidence on all aspects of the sitting
arrangements, including the sitting times of the House, standing
committees, select committees and Westminster Hall. It will also
address the annual pattern of sittings, including those in September.
The Committee will take account of the recent
survey by the Procedure Committee, as well as submissions in response
to my original letter to Members in January. However, should any
Member wish to make additional points I would welcome all further
representations relating to any aspect of the House's sitting
arrangements.
Peter Hain
Chairman
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