Commons Journal 264 Chronological Index Alphabetical Index - Part I Alphabetical Index - Part II Previous Next Page 491            2007-08      Volume 264       [No. 120.] Monday 30th June 2008. The House met at half-past Two o’clock. PRAYERS. 1 Disqualification of a Member,—The Speaker laid upon the Table a notification, That Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer had this day appointed Mr David Marshall, Member for Glasgow East, to the office of Steward or Bailiff of Her Majesty’s Manor of Northstead in the County of York. 2 Liaison,—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 third allotted day in the present Session of Parliament); That a day not later than 5th August be allotted for the consideration of the following Estimates for the financial year 2008–09: Department for Transport, in so far as it relates to ticketing and concessionary travel on public transport. Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills, in so far as it relates to Science Budget allocations. Report to lie upon the Table. 3 First Delegated Legislation Committee,—Robert Key reported from the First Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Rail Vehicle Accessibility (Interoperable Rail System) Regulations 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 4 Second Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Edward O’Hara reported from the Second Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Cancellation of Contracts Made in a Consumer’s Home or Place of Work etc. Regulations 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 5 Third Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mrs Janet Dean reported from the Third Delegated Legislation Committee the draft National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence) (Social Welfare) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 6 European Committee B,—John Bercow reported from European Committee B the following Resolution: That the Committee takes note of the unnumbered Explanatory Memorandum from HM Treasury dated 2nd June 2008 relating to the Preliminary Draft Budget of the European Communities for the year 2009; and supports the Government’s efforts to maintain budget discipline in relation to the budget for the European Communities. Resolution to lie upon the Table. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 7 Crown Employment (Nationality) Bill,—Ordered, That the Crown Employment (Nationality) Bill be read a second time on Friday 17th October. 8 Human Rights Act 1998 (Meaning of Public Function) Bill,—Ordered, That the Human Rights Act 1998 (Meaning of Public Function) Bill be read a second time on Friday 17th October. 9 New Member,—John Michael Howell, Esquire, Member for Henley, was sworn. 10 Opposition Day [16th 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. Energy security,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House acknowledges that the security of the UK’s energy supply has become of increasing importance over the last five years; understands that with over eight GW of coal and a further seven GW of nuclear generating capacity coming offline in the next decade the UK faces a potentially serious energy gap by 2016; regrets that with only 2 per cent. of the UK’s energy needs coming from renewable sources, the UK is one of the worst performers in Europe; notes that the Government’s own Renewables Advisory Board has established that the UK is set to miss its EU renewables target for 2020 even with significant policy changes; further notes that, as an island nation, the UK has major Page 492      Monday 30th June 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top potential as a source of wave and tidal energy; deplores the fact that the Marine Renewables Deployment Fund has not delivered monies to a single project since its creation in 2005; regrets that the Government’s latest Energy Bill contains insufficient provisions for feed-in tariffs for microgeneration, the fast roll-out of smart meters or any serious help for the fuel poor; and urgently presses the Government to act now to secure the UK’s energy supplies for the future—(Mr Alan Duncan); 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 ‘acknowledges that the Government is addressing the recent sharp increases in fossil fuel prices, which reflect an imbalance between supply and demand in global markets, through international engagement; recognises that the UK has the most competitive energy markets among the G7 nations, as recognised by independent analysts; acknowledges the Government’s success in establishing a market framework which encourages sharp increases in gas import and storage capacity; further acknowledges the Government’s success in establishing a clear framework for investment in new nuclear generation capacity through the Nuclear White Paper, and in setting out a blueprint for a historic expansion of renewable generation through the Renewable Energy Strategy consultation; recognises the Government’s work in promoting energy efficiency as an integral part of its strategy; commends the Government’s efforts to counter fuel poverty through the Winter Fuel Payment and through securing major financial commitments from energy supply companies; notes the Government’s support for microgeneration; recognises that the Energy, Climate Change and Planning Bills will provide a legislative framework that is fit for purpose in changing market conditions and that supports the Government’s policy objectives; believes that the Opposition’s failure to show clear leadership on energy could put at risk Great Britain’s energy security; condemns their failure to support the Government’s Renewables Obligation; and deplores their opposition to the Planning Bill, which will provide greater certainty for major infrastructure building and help secure Great Britain’s future energy independence’, instead thereof.—(Mr Secretary Hutton.) And the Question being proposed, That the original words stand part of the Question; Mr Andrew Robathan 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 Nick Hurd, Mr Richard Benyon: 183. Tellers for the Noes, Tony Cunningham, Mr Dave Watts: 279. 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 acknowledges that the Government is addressing the recent sharp increases in fossil fuel prices, which reflect an imbalance between supply and demand in global markets, through international engagement; recognises that the UK has the most competitive energy markets among the G7 nations, as recognised by independent analysts; acknowledges the Government’s success in establishing a market framework which encourages sharp increases in gas import and storage capacity; further acknowledges the Government’s success in establishing a clear framework for investment in new nuclear generation capacity through the Nuclear White Paper, and in setting out a blueprint for a historic expansion of renewable generation through the Renewable Energy Strategy consultation; recognises the Government’s work in promoting energy efficiency as an integral part of its strategy; commends the Government’s efforts to counter fuel poverty through the Winter Fuel Payment and through securing major financial commitments from energy supply companies; notes the Government’s support for microgeneration; recognises that the Energy, Climate Change and Planning Bills will provide a legislative framework that is fit for purpose in changing market conditions and that supports the Government’s policy objectives; believes that the Opposition’s failure to show clear leadership on energy could put at risk Great Britain’s energy security; condemns their failure to support the Government’s Renewables Obligation; and deplores their opposition to the Planning Bill, which will provide greater certainty for major infrastructure building and help secure Great Britain’s future energy independence. Page 493      Monday 30th June 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top Food security,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House notes with concern current food shortages which are believed to have pushed 100 million people into hunger worldwide; recognises that rising food prices are putting household budgets under increasing strain; believes that with rising global demand and pressure on supply it is both a practical and moral imperative that Great Britain retains the capacity to produce a significant proportion of its own food; notes that UK self-sufficiency in food has declined considerably over the last decade; regrets the Government’s failure to accept that domestic production is a necessary condition for food security; and urges the Government to relieve pressure on world markets and ensure the security of domestic food supply by enabling British farmers to optimise food production while preserving the natural environment—(Mr James Paice); An Amendment was proposed to the Question, in line 2, to leave out from the word ‘House’ to the end of the Question and add the words ‘notes with concern current food shortages which are believed to have pushed 100 million people into hunger worldwide; acknowledges the steps taken by the Prime Minister to encourage co-ordinated international action to address global food security; welcomes the additional UK contribution to the World Food Programme; recognises that rising food prices as a result of global pressures are affecting household food budgets; believes that with rising global demand Great Britain needs a strong farming industry able to produce a significant proportion of UK food; notes that UK self sufficiency stands at 74 per cent. for food which can be grown in the UK, which is higher than in the early 1950s; and commends the Government’s role in helping to develop a domestic farming sector that produces what consumers want in a way that preserves natural resources and enhances the valuable environmental benefits that it provides to society’, instead thereof.—(Secretary Hilary Benn.) And the Question being proposed, That the original words stand part of the Question; Mr Andrew Robathan 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 John Baron, Mr Nick Hurd: 185. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr Sadiq Khan: 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):—It was agreed to. The Speaker forthwith declared the Main Question, as amended, to be agreed to. Resolved, That this House notes with concern current food shortages which are believed to have pushed 100 million people into hunger worldwide; acknowledges the steps taken by the Prime Minister to encourage co-ordinated international action to address global food security; welcomes the additional UK contribution to the World Food Programme; recognises that rising food prices as a result of global pressures are affecting household food budgets; believes that with rising global demand Great Britain needs a strong farming industry able to produce a significant proportion of UK food; notes that UK self sufficiency stands at 74 per cent. for food which can be grown in the UK, which is higher than in the early 1950s; and commends the Government’s role in helping to develop a domestic farming sector that produces what consumers want in a way that preserves natural resources and enhances the valuable environmental benefits that it provides to society. 11 Representation of the People,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Representation of the People (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 14th May, be approved—(Mr Dave Watts):—It was agreed to. 12 Representation of the People,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Service Voters’ Registration Period (Northern Ireland) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 14th May, be approved—(Mr Dave Watts):—It was agreed to. 13 Tribunals and Inquiries,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Appeals from the Upper Tribunal to the Court of Appeal Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 4th June, be approved—(Mr Dave Watts):—It was agreed to. Page 494      Monday 30th June 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 14 Tribunals and Inquiries,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal (Composition of Tribunal) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 4th June, be approved—(Mr Dave Watts):—It was agreed to. 15 Tribunals and Inquiries,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Transfer of Tribunal Functions Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 4th June, be approved—(Mr Dave Watts):—It was agreed to. 16 Healthcare and Associated Professions,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Health Care and Associated Professions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 4th June, be approved—(Mr Dave Watts):—It was agreed to. 17 Business of the House,—Ordered, That, notwithstanding the practice of the House as to the intervals between stages of Bills brought in upon Ways and Means Resolutions, more than one stage of the Finance Bill may be taken at any sitting of the House.—(Mr Dave Watts.) 18 Adjournment. Subject: Re-doubling of the Swindon to Kemble railway line (Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown). Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Dave Watts.) And accordingly, the House, having continued to sit till fourteen minutes to Eleven o’clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 10.46 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers delivered to the Votes and Proceedings Office on Friday 27th June 2008 pursuant to Standing Order No. 159 (Presentation of statutory instruments): Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 1 Companies,—Companies Act 1985 (Annual Return) and Companies (Principal Business Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1659), dated 24th June 2008, with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [Mr Secretary Hutton]. 2 Defence,—Armed Forces (Service Inquiries) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1651), dated 25th June 2008, with an Explanatory Memorandum [Secretary Des Browne]. 3 Employment and Training,—Industrial Training Levy (Reasonable Steps) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1639), dated 21st June 2008, with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [Secretary John Denham]. Papers presented or laid upon the Table on Monday 30th June 2008: Paper subject to Affirmative Resolution: 4 Terms and Conditions of Employment,—Draft Maternity and Parental Leave etc. and the Paternity and Adoption Leave (Amendment) Regulations 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Mr Secretary Hutton]. Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 5 Education,—Student Fees (Qualifying Courses and Persons) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1640), dated 23rd June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary John Denham]. 6 Social Security,—Income-related Benefits (Subsidy to Authorities) Amendment (No. 3) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1649), dated 23rd June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary James Purnell]. Page 495      Monday 30th June 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top Other Papers: 7 Culture, Media and Sport,—Government Response to the Sixth Report from the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, Session 2007–08, on London 2012 Games: the next lap [by Command] [Cm. 7437] [Tessa Jowell]. 8 Defence,—Ministry of Defence Minute, dated 30th June 2008, concerning the updating of a contingent liability (Departmental minute dated 22nd May 2006) for the underwriting of funding for the Armed Forces memorial [by Command] [Secretary Des Browne]. 9 Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall,—Report and Financial Statements of the Duchy of Cornwall for 2007–08 [by Act] [Angela Eagle]. 10 Financial Services and Markets,—Report of the Financial Services Authority for 2007–08 [by Act] [Kitty Ussher]. 11 Foreign and Commonwealth Office,—Paper, entitled Iran’s Nuclear Programme: A Collection of Documents (Volume 2) [by Command] [Cm. 7421] [Secretary David Miliband]. 12 Government Resources and Accounts,—(1) Accounts of the Oil and Pipelines Agency for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 883] [Clerk of the House]; (2) Report and Accounts of FCO Services for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 610] [Secretary David Miliband]; (3) Report and Resource Accounts of the National School of Government for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 616] [Jane Kennedy]; and (4) Resource Accounts of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 614] [Jane Kennedy]. 13 Health,—Paper, entitled High Quality Care for All: NHS Next Stage Review Final Report [by Command] [Cm. 7432] [Secretary Alan Johnson]. 14 National Audit,—Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General on Programmes to reduce household energy consumption [by Act]; to be printed [No. 787] [Clerk of the House]. 15 National Health Service,—Reports and Accounts for 2007–08 of— (1) NHS Business Services Authority, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 714]; (2) Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust [by Act]; and (3) Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust [by Act] [Secretary Alan Johnson]. 16 National Health Service Reform and Healthcare Professions,—Report and Accounts of the Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 688] [Secretary Alan Johnson]. 17 Police (Northern Ireland),—Accounts of the Police Service Northern Ireland for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 882] [Clerk of the House]. APPENDIX II General Committees 1 Draft Rail Vehicle Accessibility (Interoperable Rail System) Regulations 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged John Battle, Clive Efford and Dr Tony Wright from the First Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mr Adrian Bailey, Ian Lucas and Mr Ian McCartney. Page 496      Monday 30th June 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 2 Draft Cancellation of Contracts made in a Consumer’s Home or Place of Work etc. Regulations 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Margaret Moran from the Second Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mr Doug Henderson. 3 Draft National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence) (Social Welfare) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Ann Clwyd, Mr Don Touhig and Mark Williams from the Third Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Ann Coffey, Mr John Heppell and Mr Roger Williams. European Committees 4 Unnumbered Explanatory Memorandum dated 2nd June 2007, relating to the Preliminary Draft Budget of the European Communities 2009,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Stephen Byers, Michael Jabez Foster and Mr Lindsay Hoyle from European Committee B (nominated in respect of the Memorandum) and nominated in substitution Ben Chapman, Mr Charles Clarke and David Wright. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Children, Schools and Families,—Looked-after children: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Children, Schools and Families Committee; to be printed [No. 442-viii] [Mr Barry Sheerman]. 2 Communities and Local Government,—(1) New Towns—Follow-up: Ninth Report from the Communities and Local Government Committee, with a Memorandum; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report, and Memoranda reported and ordered to be published on 19th November and 2nd June [No. 889]; and (2) Community Cohesion and Migration: Tenth Report from the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report, and Memoranda reported and ordered to be published on 4th and 25th February, 17th March, 1st April and 2nd June [No. 369] [Dr Phyllis Starkey]. 3 Public Accounts,—(1) Reducing the risk of violent crime: Forty-fifth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 546]; (2) The procurement of the National Roads Telecommunications Services: Forty-sixth Report from the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 558]; (3) Meeting needs? The offender learning and skills service: Forty-seventh Report from the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 584]; (4) Preparations for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Progress report: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed [No. 890-i]; and (5) Protecting consumers? Removing retail price controls: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed [No. 571-ii] [Mr Edward Leigh]. Page 497      Monday 30th June 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top [No. 121.] Tuesday 1st July 2008. The House met at half-past Two o’clock. PRAYERS. 1 Glasgow East Writ,—Ordered, That the Speaker do issue his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crown, to make out a new Writ for the electing of a Member to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough Constituency of Glasgow East in the room of David Marshall, who since his election for the said Borough Constituency has accepted the Office of Steward or Bailiff of Her Majesty’s Manor of Northstead in the County of York.—(Mr Geoffrey Hoon.) 2 Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Bill Olner reported from the Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Probate Services (Approved Bodies) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 3 Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Jim Hood reported from the Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Moldova) Order 2008, the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Slovenia) Order 2008, and the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (New Zealand) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 4 Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Eric Martlew reported from the Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act 2006 (Sources of Energy and Technologies) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 5 Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Eric Illsley reported from the Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) (Civil Penalty Code of Practice Order) 2008 and the draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) Regulations 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 6 Eighth Delegated Legislation Committee,—John Cummings reported from the Eighth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Parliamentary Constituencies and Assembly Electoral Regions (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 7 Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords, as follows: Alcohol Labelling Bill [Lords],—The Lords have passed a Bill to make provision for the labelling of alcoholic beverages; and for connected purposes; to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House. 8 Transparent Taxation (Receipts),—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to make provision for all receipts printed in the United Kingdom to contain a figure for the total amount of tax paid on the goods and services purchased: And that Mr Nigel Evans, Mr Brian Binley, Mr Graham Brady, Mr Christopher Chope, Philip Davies, Mr Christopher Fraser, Mr Paul Keetch, Patrick Mercer, Mark Pritchard, Mr Robert Syms, Ann Winterton and Sir Nicholas Winterton do prepare and bring it in. 9 Transparent Taxation (Receipts) Bill,—Mr Nigel Evans accordingly presented a Bill to make provision for all receipts printed in the United Kingdom to contain a figure for the total amount of tax paid on the goods and services purchased: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 17th October and to be printed [Bill 127]. 10 Finance Bill [Ways and Means],—Income tax: basic rate limit,—Resolved, That provision may be made in the Finance Bill about the basic rate limit.—(Jane Kennedy.) 11 Finance Bill [Ways and Means],—Effects of transfer of rights to payment etc,—Resolved, That provision may be made in the Finance Bill about cases in which a right to be paid, repaid or credited with a sum by the Commissioners for Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs has been transferred from one person to another.—(Jane Kennedy.) Page 498      Tuesday 1st July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 12 Finance Bill [Ways and Means],—Insurance special purpose vehicles,—Resolved, That provision may be made in the Finance Bill for the making of provision (including provision having retrospective effect) in relation to insurance special purpose vehicles.—(Jane Kennedy.) 13 Finance Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded to consider the Finance Bill, not amended in the Committee and as amended in the Public Bill Committee. Ordered, That the order in which proceedings on consideration of the Finance Bill are taken shall be: New Clauses relating to income tax; amendments relating to Clauses Nos. 1 to 3 and Schedule No. 1; New Clauses relating to the powers of HM Revenue and Customs; amendments relating to Part 7; New Clauses relating to inheritance tax; amendments relating to Clause No. 8 and Schedule No. 4; New Clauses relating to information about and simplification of taxation; amendments relating to Schedule No. 3; New Clauses relating to vehicle excise duty and fuel duties; amendments relating to Clauses Nos. 15 and 75 and Schedules Nos. 7 and 17; remaining proceedings.—(Jane Kennedy.) A Clause (NC11) (Personal allowance for those aged under 65)—(Jane Kennedy)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill. Another Clause (NC12) (Basic rate limit)—(Jane Kennedy)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill. Another Clause (NC4) (Income tax rates)—(Mr Philip Hammond)—brought up and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, James Duddridge, Jeremy Wright: 220. Tellers for the Noes, Steve McCabe, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 304. Amendment (No. 6) proposed to the Bill, in page 2, line 27, at the end, to insert the words— ‘(8) The Chancellor of the Exchequer shall, within six months of the coming into force of this section, lay before the House of Commons a report containing an assessment of the combined impact of— (a) the increase in personal allowances, and (b) the abolition of the starting rate of income tax, on individuals with a gross income under £13,000 per annum.’.—(Mr Jeremy Browne.) Question put, That the Amendment be made. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Roger Williams, Dan Rogerson: 161. Tellers for the Noes, Ms Diana R. Johnson, Steve McCabe: 307. Amendment (No. 5) made to the Bill. Another Clause (NC16) (Set-off etc where right to be paid a sum has been transferred)—(Jane Kennedy)—brought up, read the first and second time, and added to the Bill. Another Clause (NC5) (Coming into force of Part 7)—(Mr David Gauke)—brought up and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Jeremy Wright, James Duddridge: 214. Tellers for the Noes, Alison Seabeck, Mr Wayne David: 295. Another Clause (NC19) (Taxpayers’ charter)—(Mr Jeremy Browne)—brought up and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. Page 499      Tuesday 1st July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Dan Rogerson, Mr Roger Williams: 214. Tellers for the Noes, Alison Seabeck, Mr Wayne David: 299. Other Amendments (Nos. 24 to 28) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 4) proposed to the Bill, in page 413, line 21, to leave out paragraph 12.—(Mr David Gauke.) Question put, That the Amendment be made. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Jeremy Wright, James Duddridge: 212. Tellers for the Noes, Alison Seabeck, Mr Wayne David: 300. Another Clause (NC2) (Treatment of siblings for purpose of inheritance tax)—(Mr Frank Field)—brought up and read the first time. Question proposed, That the Clause be read a second time:—Clause, by leave, withdrawn. Ordered, That further consideration of the Bill be now adjourned.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) Bill to be further considered to-morrow. 14 Disabled Persons,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Rail Vehicle Accessibility (Interoperable Rail System) Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 21st May, be approved—(Siobhain McDonagh):—It was agreed to. 15 Constitutional Law,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence) (Social Welfare) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 22nd May, be approved—(Siobhain McDonagh):—It was agreed to. 16 Consumer Protection,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Cancellation of Contracts made in a Consumer’s Home or Place of Work etc. Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 4th June, be approved—(Siobhain McDonagh):—It was agreed to. 17 Preliminary Draft Budget of the European Communities 2009,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Committees), That this House takes note of the unnumbered Explanatory Memorandum from HM Treasury dated 2nd June 2008, relating to the Preliminary Draft Budget of the European Communities for the year 2009; and supports the Government’s efforts to maintain budget discipline in relation to the budget for the European Communities—(Siobhain McDonagh):—It was agreed to. 18 Fire and Rescue Services,—Ordered, That the Fire and Rescue Services (National Framework) (England) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1370), dated 3rd June, be referred to a Delegated Legislation Committee.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) 19 Modernisation of the House,—Ordered, That Mr Iain Wright be discharged from the Select Committee on Modernisation of the House of Commons and Dr Howard Stoate be added.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) 20 Business of the House,—Ordered, That, at the sitting on Thursday 3rd July, the Speaker shall put the Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on— (1) the Motions in the name of Ms Harriet Harman relating to Members’ Salaries; and; (2) the Motion in the name of Nick Harvey relating to Members’ Expenses and the Motion in the name of Ms Harriet Harman relating to Members’ Home Addresses in each case one and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings on the first such Motion; such Questions shall include the Questions on any Amendments selected by the Speaker which may then be moved; proceedings may continue, though opposed, after the moment of interruption; and Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions) shall not apply.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) Page 500      Tuesday 1st July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 21 Public Petitions,—Public Petitions from— (1) employees of HM Revenue and Customs, the Public and Commercial Services Union and others relating to HMRC workforce change; (2) Botley and Hedge End residents relating to planning (Hampshire); and (3) citizens of Glamis and surrounding area relating to Post Office closures (Angus) were presented and read. 22 Adjournment. Subject: Economic development in Houghton and Washington East constituency (Mr Fraser Kemp). A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Siobhain McDonagh); And it being Ten o’clock, the Motion for the adjournment of the House lapsed, without Question put. Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Mr Michael Foster.) And accordingly, the House, having continued to sit till eighteen minutes past Ten o’clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 10.18 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 1 Defence,—(1) Armed Forces (Entry, Search and Seizure) (Amendment) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1698); and (2) Courts-Martial (Amendment) Rules 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1699), dated 27th June 2008 [by Act], with Explanatory Memoranda thereon [by Command] [Secretary Des Browne]. 2 Estate Agents,—(1) Estate Agents (Redress Scheme) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1712); and (2) Estate Agents (Redress Scheme) (Penalty Charge) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1713), dated 28th June 2008 [by Act], with Explanatory Memoranda and Impact Assessments thereon [by Command] [Mr Secretary Hutton]. 3 Financial Services and Markets,—Regulated Covered Bonds (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1714), dated 30th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Kitty Ussher]. 4 Food,—Eggs and Chicks (England) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1718), dated 30th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Hilary Benn]. 5 National Health Service,—National Health Service (Optical Charges and Payments) Amendment (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1657), dated 26th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Alan Johnson]. 6 Transport,—Cross-border Railway Services (Working Time) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1660), dated 25th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Ruth Kelly]. Other Papers: 7 Companies (Audit, Investigations and Community Enterprise),—Report to the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform by the Regulator of Community Interest Companies for 2007–08 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Hutton]. 8 Courts and Legal Services,—Report and Accounts of the Legal Services Ombudsman for England and Wales for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 631] [Secretary Jack Straw]. Page 501      Tuesday 1st July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 9 Home Office,—Home Office Minute, dated 1st July 2008, concerning the use of indemnities by the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) to facilitate firearms training [by Command] [Secretary Jacqui Smith]. 10 Local Government,—(1) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 1) for 1989; (2) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 2) for 1990; (3) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 3) for 1991; (4) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 4) for 1990–91 to 1993–94; and (5) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 5) for 1994 [by Act] [Secretary Hazel Blears]. 11 Treasury,—Paper, entitled Financial stability and depositor protection: further consultation [by Command] [Cm. 7436] [Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer]. Papers withdrawn: 12 Home Office,—Home Office Minute, dated 17th April 2008, concerning the use of indemnities by the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) to facilitate firearms training [laid 21st April]. APPENDIX II General Committees 1 Draft Probate Services (Approved Bodies) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Brian H. Donohoe, David Heyes, Sir Gerald Kaufman and Chris McCafferty from the Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Colin Burgon, Ms Katy Clarke, Chris Mole and Mr Virendra Sharma. 2 Draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Moldova) Order 2008, draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Slovenia) Order 2008 and draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (New Zealand) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Jon Cruddas and Mr Mike Hall from the Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Orders) and nominated in substitution Dr Brian Iddon and Mr Ken Purchase. 3 Draft Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act 2006 (Sources of Energy and Technologies) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Colin Challen and Mr Doug Henderson from the Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Jeremy Corbyn and Margaret Moran. 4 Draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) (Civil Penalty Code of Practice) Order 2008 and draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) Regulations 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Charlotte Atkins and Mr Richard Caborn from the Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order and draft Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mr Clive Betts and Mr David S. Borrow. 5 Draft Parliamentary Constituencies and Assembly Electoral Regions (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mrs Louise Ellman, Mr Fabian Hamilton, Mrs Eleanor Laing, Mr Elliot Morley and Mark Williams from the Eighth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mr Edward Garnier, Ms Patricia Hewitt, David Heyes, Chris McCafferty and Mr Roger Williams. APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Culture, Media and Sport,—Draft Heritage Protection Bill: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee; to be printed [No. 821-i] [Mr John Whittingdale]. 2 Defence,—Ministry of Defence Main Estimates 2008–09: Eleventh Report from the Defence Committee, with Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 885] [Mr James Arbuthnot]. Page 502      Tuesday 1st July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 3 Draft Constitutional Renewal Bill,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Joint Committee on the Draft Constitutional Renewal Bill; to be printed [No. 551-xiii]; and (2) Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published [Michael Jabez Foster]. 4 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,—Flooding: Government Response to the Fifth Report from the Committee, Session 2007–08: First Special Report from the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 901] [Mr Michael Jack]. 5 Environmental Audit,—(1) Reaching an international agreement on climate change: Sixth Report from the Environmental Audit Committee, with Annexes and Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 355]; and (2) Making Government operations more sustainable: A progress report: Seventh Report from the Committee, with Annexes and Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 529] [Tim Yeo]. 6 Home Affairs,—Policing in the 21st Century: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Home Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 364-viii] [Keith Vaz]. 7 Justice,—Justice Reinvestment: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Justice Committee; to be printed [No. 425-v] [Sir Alan Beith]. 8 Treasury,—Offshore Financial Centres: (1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Treasury Committee; to be printed [No. 895-i]; and (2) Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published [John McFall]. 9 Welsh Affairs,—(1) The provision of cross-border health services for Wales: Interim Report: Sixth Report from the Welsh Affairs Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 870]; (2) The proposed National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence) (Housing) Order: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed [No. 812-ii]; (3) Globalisation and its impact on Wales: Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published; and (4) The provision of cross-border public services for Wales: Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published [Dr Hywel Francis]. [No. 121; WH, No. 78] Tuesday 1st July 2008. The House sitting in Westminster Hall The sitting began at half-past Nine o’clock.   Adjournment. Subjects: Parading in Northern Ireland (David Simpson). Consultation process on the Greater Manchester bid for funding from the Transport Innovation Fund (Barbara Keeley). Safety of the RAF Nimrod Fleet (Angus Robertson). Effects on road safety of the construction work on Bede Academy in Blyth Valley constituency (Mr Ronnie Campbell). Epilepsy and screen-based electronic games (John Penrose). Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 1.59 p.m. Page 503      Tuesday 1st July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top [No. 122.] Wednesday 2nd July 2008. The House met at half-past Eleven o’clock. PRAYERS. 1 Ninth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Mike Hancock reported from the Ninth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Representation of the People (Amendment) Regulations 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 2 Tenth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Dr William McCrea reported from the Tenth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Northern Ireland (Sentences) Act 1998 (Specified Organisations) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 3 Eleventh Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Edward O’Hara reported from the Eleventh Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Crime (International Co-operation) Act 2003 (Designation of Participating Countries) (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 4 Twelfth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Joe Benton reported from the Twelfth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft London Waste and Recycling Board Order 2008. 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 agree to the Health and Social Care Bill, with Amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House. 6 Health and Social Care Bill,—Lords Amendments to the Health and Social Care Bill to be considered to-morrow; and to be printed [Bill 132]. Ordered, That the Explanatory Notes relating to the Lords Amendments to the Health and Social Care Bill be printed [Bill 132–EN]. 7 British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies,—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to place duties on Her Majesty’s Government regarding the participation in and recognition at State occasions of the British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies; to make provision about educational material concerning their constitutional and historical status; and for connected purposes: And that Andrew Rosindell, Mr Henry Bellingham, Daniel Kawczynski, Sir Nicholas Winterton, Angela Watkinson, Mr David Evennett, Mr Nigel Evans, Mr Nigel Dodds, Mr Lindsay Hoyle, Geraldine Smith, Jeff Ennis and Bob Russell do prepare and bring it in. 8 British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies Bill,—Andrew Rosindell accordingly presented a Bill to place duties on Her Majesty’s Government regarding the participation in and recognition at State occasions of the British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies; to make provision about educational material concerning their constitutional and historical status; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 17th October and to be printed [Bill 128]. 9 Finance Bill,—The House, according to Order, proceeded further to consider the Finance Bill, not amended in the Committee and as amended in the Public Bill Committee. Another Clause (NC17) (Report on proposed tax changes)—(Mr Philip Hammond)—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 Richard Benyon, Mr Crispin Blunt: 190. Tellers for the Noes, Tony Cunningham, Mr Dave Watts: 267. Another Amendment (No. 89) proposed to the Bill, in page 127, line 5, to leave out ‘B,’.—(Mr Philip Hammond.) Question put, That the Amendment be made. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Crispin Blunt, James Duddridge: 198. Tellers for the Noes, Tony Cunningham, Mr Dave Watts: 277. Page 504      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top Another Amendment (No. 29) made to the Bill. Another Clause (NC3) (Vehicle excise duty: variation of graduated rates for light passenger vehicles)—(Justine Greening)—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 Richard Benyon, Mr Crispin Blunt: 240. Tellers for the Noes, Alison Seabeck, Mr Sadiq Khan: 303. Another Clause (NC8) (Fuel duties: rates and rebates: general fuel duty regulator)—(Stewart Hosie)—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 Mike Weir, Hywel Williams: 15. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Sadiq Khan, Alison Seabeck: 309. Another Clause (NC14) (Remote rural fuel discount scheme)—(John Thurso)—brought up and read the first time. Question put, That the Clause be read a second time. The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Willie Rennie, Richard Younger-Ross: 67. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Sadiq Khan, Alison Seabeck: 305. Other Amendments (Nos. 22 and 23) made to the Bill. Another Amendment (No. 13) proposed to the Bill, in page 156, line 35, to leave out the words ‘must be’ and insert the words ‘will be deemed to be’, instead thereof.—(Mr Mark Hoban.) Question proposed, That the Amendment be made:—Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Other Amendments (Nos. 40 to 68, 18, 70 to 87 and 30 to 33) made to the Bill. A Motion was made, and the Question being put, That the Bill be now read the third time; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr Sadiq Khan: 266. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Crispin Blunt, Mr Richard Benyon: 184. So the Question was agreed to. The Bill was accordingly read the third time, and passed. 10 Capital Gains Tax,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Moldova) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th May, be approved—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. 11 Capital Gains Tax,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (New Zealand) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th May, be approved—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. 12 Capital Gains Tax,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Slovenia) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th May, be approved—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. 13 Energy,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act 2006 (Sources of Energy and Technologies) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th May, be approved—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. 14 Legal Services,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Probate Services (Approved Bodies) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 9th June, be approved—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. Page 505      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 15 Representation of the People (Wales),—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Parliamentary Constituencies and Assembly Electoral Regions (Wales) (Amendment) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 11th June, be approved—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. 16 Immigration,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 11th June, be approved—(Liz Blackman); And the Deputy Speaker’s opinion as to the decision of the Question being challenged, the Division was deferred till Wednesday 9th July, pursuant to Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions). 17 Immigration,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Immigration (Biometric Registration) (Civil Penalty Code of Practice) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 11th June, be approved—(Liz Blackman); And the Deputy Speaker’s opinion as to the decision of the Question being challenged, the Division was deferred till Wednesday 9th July, pursuant to Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions). 18 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 [30th June] of the Liaison Committee—(Liz Blackman):—It was agreed to. 19 Business of the House,—Ordered, That, at the sitting on Wednesday 9th July— (1) paragraph (2) of Standing Order No. 31 (Questions on amendments) shall apply to the Motion in the name of Mr Peter Robinson as if the day were an Opposition Day; proceedings on the Motion may continue, though opposed, for three hours and shall then lapse if not previously disposed of; and Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions) shall not apply; and (2) notwithstanding the provisions of Standing Order No. 16 (Proceedings under an Act or on European Union documents), the Speaker shall put the Questions necessary to dispose of the Motion in the name of Secretary Hazel Blears relating to Council Tax not later than three hours after its commencement; proceedings may continue, though opposed, after the moment of interruption; and Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions) shall not apply.—(Liz Blackman.) 20 Public Petitions,—Public Petitions from (1) Mrs D Todd and others of like disposition relating to prison sentences (early release); and (2) J Everett, the residents of Castle Point and others relating to planning and development (Essex) were presented and read. 21 Adjournment. Subject: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Mr Nigel Evans). Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Liz Blackman.) And accordingly, the House, having continued to sit till thirteen minutes past Nine o’clock, adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 9.13 p.m. APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution: 1 Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism,—Draft Terrorism Act 2000 (Proscribed Organisations) (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Jacqui Smith]. 2 Terms and Conditions of Employment,—Draft Fixed-term Employees (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary James Purnell]. Page 506      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 3 Education,—Education (Designated Institutions) (Amendment) (England) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1643), dated 25th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary John Denham]. 4 Financial Services and Markets,—Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Control of Transfers of Business Done at Lloyd’s) (Amendment) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1725), dated 1st July 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Kitty Ussher]. 5 Medicines,—Medicines for Human Use (Prescribing by EEA Practitioners) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1692), dated 26th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Alan Johnson]. Other Papers: 6 Constitutional Reform,—Report of the Judicial Appointments and Conduct Ombudsman for 2007–08 [by Act] [Secretary Jack Straw]. 7 Government Resources and Accounts,—(1) Report and Accounts of the Veterinary Laboratories Agency for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 647] [Secretary Hilary Benn]; and (2) Resource Accounts of the Charity Commission for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 618] [Jane Kennedy]. 8 Home Office,—Home Office Minute, dated 1st July 2008, concerning the Execution of Deed of Indemnity by the UK Border Agency as a prerequisite of CIFAS Membership [by Command] [Secretary Jacqui Smith]. 9 Land Registration,—Report and Accounts of the Land Registry for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 767] [Secretary Jack Straw]. 10 Local Government,—(1) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 6) for 1995; (2) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 7) for 1996; (3) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 8) for 1997; (4) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 9) for 1998; and (5) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 10) for 1999 [by Act] [Secretary Hazel Blears]. 11 Members’ Interests,—Register of Members’ Interests as at 16th June 2008 [pursuant to the Resolutions of 22nd May 1974, 28th June 1993, 6th November 1995, 14th May 2002 and 27th March 2008]; to be printed [No. 838] [Clerk of the House]. 12 National Audit,—Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General on the Ministry of Defence: The Defence Information Infrastructure [by Act]; to be printed [No. 788] [Clerk of the House]. APPENDIX II General Committees 1 Draft Alternative Finance Arrangements (Community Investment Tax Relief) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the First Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr Hugh Bayley Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Michael Ancram, Charlotte Atkins, Mr Richard Bacon, Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr Crispin Blunt, Mr Tim Boswell, Mr Jeremy Browne, Dr Vincent Cable, Mrs Claire Curtis-Thomas, Angela Eagle, Clive Efford, Justine Greening, Glenda Jackson, Mr Denis MacShane, Mr Alan Meale and Ms Angela C. Smith (Sheffield and Hillsborough). 2 Draft Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons) (Amendment No. 2) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Second Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Ms Joan Walley Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Crispin Blunt, James Brokenshire, Mr Alan Campbell, Mr Douglas Carswell, Mr Kenneth Clarke, Mr Vernon Coaker, Harry Cohen, Mr Stephen Crabb, Lynne Featherstone, Mr Bruce George, Chris Huhne, Martin Linton, Mr Elliot Morley, Mr Chris Mullin, Mr Jamie Reed and Mr Andrew Smith. Page 507      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 3 Draft Large and Medium-sized Limited Liability Partnerships (Accounts) Regulations 2008, the draft Small Limited Liability Partnerships (Accounts) Regulations 2008 and the draft Limited Liability Partnership (Accounts and Audit) (Application of Companies Act 2006) Regulations 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Third Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Sir Nicholas Winterton Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr John Baron, Lorely Burt, Mr David Curry, Mr Quentin Davies, Mr Jonathan Djanogly, Mrs Nadine Dorries, Dr Nick Palmer, Mrs Linda Riordan, Alison Seabeck, Alan Simpson, Mr John Spellar, Mr Robert Syms, Sarah Teather, Mr Paul Truswell, Dr Alan Whitehead and Malcolm Wicks. 4 Draft Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr Christopher Chope Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Liz Blackman, Mr Crispin Blunt, David Cairns, Mr Brian H. Donohoe, Mr Michael Fallon, Mr Mark Field, Mr Christopher Fraser, Nigel Griffiths, Mr Adam Ingram, Mark Lazarowicz, Ann McKechin, Anne Moffat, Mr Michael Moore, Sandra Osborne, Mr Alan Reid and Mr Ben Wallace. 5 Draft Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Investigative Powers of Prosecutors in England, Wales and Northern Ireland: Code of Practice) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr David Wilshire Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Vera Baird, Mr Henry Bellingham, Liz Blackman, Ann Clwyd, Mr Frank Field, Mr Fabian Hamilton, Mr David Heathcoat-Amory, John Hemming, Stephen Hesford, Mr Douglas Hogg, David Howarth, Mr Nick Hurd, Mr Michael Jack, Dr Stephen Ladyman, Mr Denis Murphy and Mr Don Touhig. 6 Draft Community Emissions Trading Scheme (Allocation of Allowances for Payment) Regulations 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr Martyn Jones Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr Crispin Blunt, Dr Vincent Cable, Angela Eagle, Justine Greening, Mr David Hamilton, Miss Julie Kirkbride, Mr Greg Knight, Mr Edward Leigh, Andrew Mackinlay, Mr Khalid Mahmood, Dr John Pugh, Mr Geoffrey Robinson, Martin Salter, Ms Angela C. Smith (Sheffield, Hillsborough) and Sir Peter Soulsby. 7 Draft African Development Bank (Eleventh Replenishment of the African Development Fund) Order 2008 and the draft African Development Fund (Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative) (Amendment) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Orders to the Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Miss Anne Begg Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: John Barrett, Mr Simon Burns, Paul Farrelly, Mr Peter Hain, Ms Diana R. Johnson, Sir Gerald Kaufman, Mr Mark Lancaster, Mr Ian Liddell-Grainger, Kerry McCarthy, Mr Humfrey Malins, Mr Michael Mates, Gillian Merron, Mr Michael Moore, Dr Doug Naysmith, Mr Marsha Singh and Dr Howard Stoate. 8 Draft Mesothelioma Lump Sum Payments (Conditions and Amounts) Regulations 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Eighth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Sir John Butterfill Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: John Barrett, John Battle, Mr Michael Clapham, Mr Wayne David, James Duddridge, Mr Mark Harper, Mr Stephen Hepburn, Mr Kevan Jones, Mr Fraser Kemp, Mrs Anne McGuire, Mr Malcolm Moss, Stephen Pound, Mr John Redwood, Sir Malcolm Rifkind, Mr Dennis Skinner and Jenny Willott. 9 Draft Representation of the People (Amendment) Regulations 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged John Austin, Colin Burgon, Ms Patricia Hewitt and Mr Ian McCartney from the Ninth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Regulations) and nominated in substitution Ms Karen Buck, Mr Stephen Byers, Mr Jamie Reed and Mr Phil Wilson. Page 508      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 10 Draft International Development Association (Fifteenth Replenishment) Order 2008 and the draft International Development Association (Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative) (Amendment) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Orders to the Ninth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr Mike Hancock Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: John Barrett, Mr Simon Burns, Mr Ian Cawsey, Mr Tom Clarke, Mr George Howarth, Ms Diana R. Johnson, Mr Mark Lancaster, Kerry McCarthy, Fiona Mactaggart, Mr Shahid Malik, Mr Michael Moore, Mr Richard Shepherd, Jim Sheridan, Hon Nicholas Soames, Sir John Stanley and Mr David Winnick. 11 Draft Northern Ireland (Sentences) Act 1998 (Specified Organisations) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Douglas Carswell, Ben Chapman, Mr Charles Clarke, Mr Stephen Crabb and Mr Adam Ingram from the Tenth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution John Battle, Mr Christopher Fraser, Mr Adam Holloway, Dr Howard Stoate and Mr Anthony Wright. 12 Draft National Minimum Wage Regulations 1999 (Amendment) Regulations 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Tenth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr Robert Key Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Hilary Armstrong, Mr John Baron, Richard Burden, Lorely Burt, Jon Cruddas, Dr Ian Gibson, Mr Pat McFadden, Mr Jim McGovern, Mr Mark Prisk, Alison Seabeck, Geraldine Smith, Mr Gary Streeter, Mr Graham Stuart, Mr Desmond Swayne, Sarah Teather and Jon Trickett. 13 Draft Crime (International Co-operation) Act 2003 (Designation of Participating Countries) (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Clive Betts, Mr David S. Borrow and Mr Robert Marshall-Andrews from the Eleventh Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mr Richard Caborn, Mrs Sharon Hodgson and Tom Levitt. 14 Draft European Parliament (Number of MEPs and Distribution between Electoral Regions) (United Kingdom and Gibraltar) Order 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Eleventh Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Dr William McCrea Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Ben Chapman, Mr Charles Clarke, Mr John Heppell, Stephen Hesford, Ms Patricia Hewitt, David Howarth, John Howell, Mr Nick Hurd, Mr Sadiq Khan, Mrs Eleanor Laing, Alun Michael, Lembit O­pik, Bridget Prentice, Mr Ian Taylor, Dr Desmond Turner and Pete Wishart. 15 Draft London Waste and Recycling Board Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Frank Dobson from the Twelfth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Joan Ryan. 16 Draft Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) (Amendment No. 2) Regulations 2008: (1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Regulations to the Twelfth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Sir John Butterfill Chairman; and (2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Nick Ainger, John Austin, Mr Richard Benyon, Mr Stephen Dorrell, Mr Neil Gerrard, Martin Horwood, Mr Brian Jenkins, Daniel Kawczynski, Dr Ashok Kumar, Siobhain McDonagh, Anne Main, Joan Ruddock, Ms Gisela Stuart, Ms Dari Taylor, Bill Wiggin and Mr Roger Williams. European Committees 17 European Union Document No. 5127/08 and Addenda 1 and 2, relating to Emissions from heavy duty vehicles, has been referred to European Committee A. 18 European Union Document No. 6996/08, relating to Financial Services, amended draft Directive on the taking up and pursuit of the business of insurance and reinsurance: Solvency II (recast),—The Committee of Selection has nominated thirteen Members to serve on European Committee B, nominated in respect of the Document: Mr Colin Breed, Mr Jeremy Browne, Tony Cunningham, Mr Philip Dunne, Michael Jabez Foster, Mr Greg Hands, Mr Mark Hoban, Mr Bob Laxton, Mr Andrew Love, Margaret Moran, Mr Brooks Newmark, Helen Southworth and Kitty Ussher. Page 509      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top APPENDIX III Reports from Select Committees 1 Children, Schools and Families,—The Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Children’s Plan: Government Response to the Second Report from the Children, Schools and Families Committee, Session 2007–08: Fourth Special Report from the Children, Schools and Families Committee; to be printed [No. 888] [Mr Barry Sheerman]. 2 Culture, Media and Sport,—Draft Heritage Protection Bill: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee; to be printed [No. 821-ii] [Mr John Whittingdale]. 3 Draft Marine Bill,—(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Joint Committee on the Draft Marine Bill; to be printed [No. 552-viii]; and (2) Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published [Joan Walley]. 4 Environmental Audit,—Vehicle Excise Duty: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Environmental Audit Committee; to be printed [No. 907-i] [Joan Walley]. 5 Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,—The potential of England’s rural economy: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Sub-Committee of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 544-iii] [Mr Michael Jack]. 6 European Scrutiny,—(1) Twenty-ninth Report from the European Scrutiny Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 16-xxvi]; (2) Minutes of the Public Deliberations of the Committee; to be printed [No. 361-xv]; and (3) Ministerial Correspondence: Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published [Michael Connarty]. 7 Foreign Affairs Committee,—Global Security: Japan and Korea: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Foreign Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 449-iii] [Mike Gapes]. 8 Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills,—Plastic Electronics Engineering: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Committee; to be printed [No. 599-ii] [Mr Phil Willis]. 9 Justice,—Administration of Justice: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Sub-Committee of the Justice Committee, with a Memorandum; to be printed [No. 913-i] [Sir Alan Beith]. 10 Modernisation of the House of Commons,—(1) Regional Accountability: Third Report from the Select Committee on Modernisation of the House of Commons; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report, and Memoranda reported and ordered to be published on 16th and 30th January and 27th February [No. 282]; and (2) Recall and dissolution: Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published [Ms Harriet Harman]. 11 Northern Ireland Affairs,—Political Developments in Northern Ireland: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 914-i] [Sir Patrick Cormack]. 12 Public Administration,—Charities and Public Benefit: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Select Committee on Public Administration; to be printed [No. 663-ii] [Dr Tony Wright]. 13 Statutory Instruments,—(1) Twenty-fourth Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, with a Memorandum; to be printed [No. 38-xxiv]; and (2) Scrutinising Statutory Instruments: Departmental Returns 2007: Second Special Report from the Committee, with Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 915] [David Maclean]. 14 Transport,—School Travel: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Transport Committee; to be printed [No. 911-i] [Mrs Louise Ellman]. 15 Treasury,—(1) Appointment of Lord Turner of Ecchinswell as Chairman of the Financial Services Authority: Fourteenth Report from the Treasury Committee, with Minutes of Evidence and Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 916]; Page 510      Wednesday 2nd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top (2) Appointment of Charlie Bean as Deputy Governor of the Bank of England: Fifteenth Report from the Committee, with Minutes of Evidence; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 917]; (3) The run on the Rock: Government Response to the Fifth Report from the Committee: Eleventh Special Report from the Committee; to be printed [No. 918]; and (4) Financial Stability and Transparency: Government Response to the Sixth Report from the Committee: Twelfth Special Report from the Committee; to be printed [No. 919] [John McFall]. 16 Work and Pensions,—Employment and Support Allowance: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Work and Pensions Committee; to be printed [No. 892-i] [Mr Terry Rooney]. [No. 122; WH, No. 79] Wednesday 2nd July 2008. The House sitting in Westminster Hall The sitting began at half-past Nine o’clock.   Adjournment. Subjects: Twentieth anniversary of the Piper Alpha disaster (Mr Frank Doran). Implementation of the 2004 International Court of Justice Opinion on the Israeli Wall (Clare Short). Flight paths around London (Mr Richard Spring). Polar regions (Emily Thornberry). HM Revenue and Customs offices in Scotland (Mr Alan Reid). Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Mr Bob Blizzard.) And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till to-morrow. [Adjourned at 5.14 p.m. [No. 123.] Thursday 3rd July 2008. The House met at half-past Ten o’clock. PRAYERS. 1 London Local Authorities (Shopping Bags) Bill,—The Order of the day being read for the Second Reading of the London Local Authorities (Shopping Bags) Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 10th July. 2 Manchester City Council Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read for resuming the adjourned Debate on the Question proposed on 12th June, That the Manchester City Council Bill [Lords] be now read a second time; Ordered, That the Debate be resumed on Thursday 10th July. 3 Bournemouth Borough Council Bill [Lords],—The Order of the day being read for the Second Reading of the Bournemouth Borough Council Bill [Lords]; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 10th July. 4 Canterbury City Council Bill,—The Order of the day being read for the Second Reading of the Canterbury City Council Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 10th July. 5 Leeds City Council Bill,—The Order of the day being read for the Second Reading of the Leeds City Council Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 10th July. 6 Nottingham City Council Bill,—The Order of the day being read for the Second Reading of the Nottingham City Council Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 10th July. 7 Reading Borough Council Bill,—The Order of the day being read for the Second Reading of the Reading Borough Council Bill; Ordered, That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday 10th July. Page 511      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top 8 Contingencies Fund, 2007–08,—Ordered, That there be laid before this House Accounts of the Contingencies Fund, 2007–08, showing— (1) a balance sheet; (2) a cashflow statement; and (3) notes to the account; together with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon.—(Alison Seabeck.) 9 Children and Young Persons Bill [Lords],—Mr Greg Pope reported from the Children and Young Persons Bill [Lords] Committee, That it had gone through the Bill and made Amendments thereunto. Bill, as amended in the Public Bill Committee, to be considered on Monday 7th July; and to be printed [Bill 133]. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 10 Climate Change Bill [Lords],—Frank Cook reported a Memorandum from the Climate Change Bill [Lords] Committee. Memorandum to lie upon the Table and to be published. 11 Thirteenth Delegated Legislation Committee,—John Bercow reported from the Thirteenth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Saudi Arabia) Order 2008 and the draft International Tax Enforcement (Bermuda) Order 2008. Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee to lie upon the Table. 12 Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Bill,—Secretary Jack Straw, supported by the Prime Minister, Secretary Jacqui Smith, Secretary Des Browne, Mr Secretary Woodward, the Solicitor General and Maria Eagle, presented a Bill to make provision for the making of orders for securing the anonymity of witnesses in criminal proceedings: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Monday 7th July and to be printed [Bill 134]. Ordered, That the Explanatory Notes relating to the Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Bill be printed [Bill 134–EN]. 13 Zimbabwe (Topical Debate),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House has considered the matter of Zimbabwe—(Secretary David Miliband); And it being one and half hours after the commencement of proceedings, the Motion lapsed without Question put, pursuant to Temporary Standing Order (Topical debates). 14 Members’ Salaries (Expression of Opinion) (No. 1),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House notes Sir John Baker’s Review of Parliamentary Pay and Allowances (Cm. 7416), and is of the opinion that the recommendations in the Review for the annual salary of a Member of this House to be increased by reference to a linkage to the Public Sector Average Earnings Index combined with regular reviews of the salary and the link should be implemented, such that— (1) from 1st April 2008 and from 1st April of each subsequent year a Member’s salary should be increased by the percentage increase in the 3 month average Public Sector Average Earnings Index for January of that year relative to the figure for January of the previous year; (2) the SSRB should conduct a review of Members’ salaries in the first year of each new Parliament unless such a review has taken place within the preceding two years; (3) at such a review the SSRB should consider either or both of: (a) an adjustment to the salary (b) a different formula from that specified in paragraph (1) above to ensure that the level of salary remains adequate for recruitment and retention, appropriate for the responsibilities and reasonable in relation to total reward for jobs of similar weight in the public sector, to take effect from the first 1st April following the first meeting of the new Parliament; (4) each year the SSRB chair should notify the Speaker of the change in salary (expressed as a percentage) and, on such notification to the Speaker, that change should have effect, subject to any further notification given following a review under paragraph (2); Page 512      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top (5) the Speaker should lay before the House: (a) any notification received from the SSRB chair under paragraph (4) above; and (b) any report from the SSRB following a review under paragraph (2) above; (6) an additional salary payable to a Member under Resolutions of this House in respect of service as a chairman of select or general committees should be changed by the same percentage and from the same time as the salary of a Member—(Ms Harriet Harman); An Amendment ((a)) was proposed to the Question, in line 11, after the word ‘year’, to insert the words ‘provided that, without prejudice to the calculations based on the agreed formula, from 1st April 2008 the annual salary is increased by no more than 2.3 per cent. and that the balance of any increase due at 1st April 2008 should be payable from 1st April 2009 in addition to any increase payable at that date.’.—(Mr Don Touhig.) And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Jim Sheridan, Mr Robert Syms: 155. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Alan Campbell, Tony Cunningham: 196. So the Question was negatived. It being more than one and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings, the Speaker, pursuant to Order [1st July], put the remaining Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on the Motions relating to Members’ salaries. And the Main Question being put; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Richard Younger-Ross, Mr Paul Keetch: 141. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Alan Campbell, Tony Cunningham: 216. So the Question was negatived. 15 Members’ Salaries (Expression of Opinion) (No. 2),—Resolved, That this House notes Sir John Baker’s Review of Parliamentary Pay and Allowances (Cm. 7416), and is of the opinion that the policy set out in the Written Ministerial Statement by the Leader of the House of 17th June Official Report col 46WS should be implemented, such that— (1) the salary of a Member of this House should be increased from 1st April 2008, and from 1st April of each subsequent year, by an uprating formula which increases the salary by a percentage equal to the median of relevant increases for the following public sector groups: senior military, holders of judicial office, very senior NHS managers, doctors and dentists, the Prison Service, NHS staff, school teachers, the Armed Forces, police officers, Local Government; non-Senior Civil Service staff in each of the Department for Work and Pensions, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, the Ministry of Defence and the Home Office; and the Senior Civil Service; (2) the SSRB should conduct a review of Members’ salaries in the first year of each new Parliament unless such a review has taken place within the preceding two years; (3) at such a review the SSRB should consider either or both of: (a) an adjustment to the salary, consistent with public sector pay policy, to reflect an assessment of the appropriate salary at that time relative to jobs of similar weight elsewhere in the public sector; (b) as regards the public sector groups listed above, such amendments to the list as appear to it to be necessary to reflect changes in the pay setting arrangements for those groups; to take effect from the first 1st April following the first meeting of the new Parliament; (4) each year the SSRB chair should notify the Speaker of the change in salary (expressed as a percentage) and, on such notification to the Speaker, that change shall have effect, subject to any further notification given following a review under paragraph (2); (5) the Speaker should lay before the House: (a) any notification received from the SSRB chair under paragraph (4); and (b) any report from the SSRB following a review under paragraph (2) above; Page 513      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top (6) an additional salary payable to a Member under Resolutions of this House in respect of service as a chairman of select or general committees shall be changed by the same percentage and from the same time as the salary of a Member.—(Ms Harriet Harman.) 16 Members’ Salaries (Expression of Opinion) (No. 3),—A Motion was made, and the Question being put, That this House notes Sir John Baker’s Review of Parliamentary Pay and Allowances (Cm. 7416), and is of the opinion that the recommendation in paragraph 51 of the Review for increases over three years additional to those resulting from other uprating provisions should be implemented, such that the annual salary of a Member of this House should be increased on each of 1st April 2008, 1st April 2009 and 1st April 2010 by a sum of £650 in addition to (and after) any other change taking effect from that date by virtue of any other resolution of this House—(Ms Harriet Harman); The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Peter Bottomley, Mr Christopher Chope: 123. Tellers for the Noes, Mr Alan Campbell, Tony Cunningham: 224. So the Question was negatived. 17 Members’ Salaries (No. 2) [Money],—Her Majesty’s Recommendation having been signified to the proposed Motion relating to Members’ Salaries (No. 2) (Money); Resolved, That the following provision shall be made with respect to the salaries of Members of this House— (1) from 1st April 2008 and from 1st April of each subsequent year a Member’s salary shall be increased by a percentage equal to the median of the relevant increases for the public sector groups listed in paragraph (2); (2) the public sector groups are: (a) senior military, holders of judicial office, very senior NHS managers, doctors and dentists, the Prison Service, NHS staff, school teachers, the Armed Forces, police officers and Local Government (“List A”); (b) non-Senior Civil Service staff in each of the Department for Work and Pensions, Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, the Ministry of Defence and the Home Office (“List B”); (c) Senior Civil Service (“List C”); (3) the posts covered by a group in List A (except police officers and Local Government) and the Senior Civil Service are those posts within the group which are covered (from time to time) by a pay review body supported by the Office of Manpower Economics; (4) the reference to police officers is to those officers covered (from time to time) by the Police Negotiating Board and the reference to Local Government is to those posts covered (from time to time) by the National Joint Council for Local Government Services; (5) in the case of List A, the relevant increase for a group is determined as follows: (a) determine the last set of annual percentage pay scale increases finalised and given effect to prior to 31st December of the preceding year in relation to individuals within the group; (b) of the increases determined under paragraph (a), determine the increase that was applicable to the largest number of individuals (for this purpose, taking increases of the same percentage together as if they were one increase); and the increase determined under paragraph (b) is the relevant increase; (6) in the case of List B, the relevant increase for a group is determined as follows: (a) determine the last set of annual percentage pay scale increases finalised and given effect to prior to 31st December of the preceding year in relation to staff within the group; (b) determine the average of the increases determined under paragraph (a); and the average determined under paragraph (b) is the relevant increase; (7) in the case of List C, the relevant increase is the last annual percentage increase in the basic settlement (excluding recyclables) finalised and given effect to prior to 31st December of the preceding year; Page 514      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top (8) the SSRB shall determine each relevant increase for the purposes of paragraph (1) except where the SSRB decides, in relation to a particular group, that it is not possible for it to make such a determination because of changes in pay setting arrangements for that group or other exceptional circumstances, in which case that group shall be ignored for the purposes of paragraph (1); (9) the SSRB shall conduct a review of Members’ salaries in the first year of each new Parliament unless such a review has taken place within the preceding two years; (10) at such a review the SSRB should consider either or both of: (a) an adjustment to the salary, consistent with public sector pay policy, to reflect an assessment of the appropriate salary at that time relative to jobs of similar weight elsewhere in the public sector; (b) as regards the public sector groups listed in paragraph (2) above, such amendments to the list (including adding new groups or moving particular groups between Lists A, B and C) as appear to it to be necessary to reflect changes in the pay setting arrangements for those groups; to take effect from the first 1st April following the first meeting of the new Parliament; (11) each year the SSRB chair shall notify the Speaker of the change in salary (expressed as a percentage) and, on such notification to the Speaker, that change shall have effect, subject to any further notification given following a review under paragraph (9); (12) the Speaker shall lay before the House: (a) any notification received from the SSRB chair under paragraph (11); and (b) any report from the SSRB following a review under paragraph (9) above; (13) an additional salary payable to a Member under Resolutions of this House in respect of service as a chairman of select or general committees shall be changed by the same percentage and from the same time as the salary of a Member.—(Ms Harriet Harman.) 18 Members’ Expenses,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House welcomes the Third Report from the Members Estimate Committee: Review of Allowances (House of Commons Paper No. 578); endorses in particular the recognition of the need for a robust system of scrutiny for parliamentary allowances and the accompanying emphasis in the Report on improved audit; and is of the opinion that— (1) Recommendations 1 to 5 (audit and assurance), Recommendations 6 and 7 (scope of overnight expenses), Recommendations 9 and 10 (Communications Allowance), Recommendations 11 and 12 (travel), Recommendations 13 and 14 (overnight expenses), Recommendation 15 (resettlement), and Recommendations 16 to 18 (other SSRB recommendations) should be implemented, subject to decisions of the Members Estimate Committee with respect to their introduction and application; (2) the principle of central funding of constituency office costs, as set out in Recommendation 8, should be approved and asks the Members Estimate Committee to prepare a detailed proposal accordingly; (3) the timetable for implementation of the Recommendations set out in paragraph 257 of the Report be endorsed; and instructs the Members Estimate Committee to report from time to time on the implementation of this Resolution—(Nick Harvey); And it being one and half hours after the commencement of proceedings, the Speaker, pursuant to Order [1st July], put the Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on the Motions relating to Members’ Expenses and Members’ Home Addresses. An Amendment ((d)) was proposed to the Question, in line 3, to leave from ‘578);’ to the end of the Question and add the words ‘recognises the need to strengthen the system of scrutiny and is of the opinion that a rigorous internal system of audit of the Additional Costs Allowance be introduced covering 25 per cent. of hon. Members each year, and every hon. Member each Parliament; and is of the opinion that— (1) Recommendations 5 (staff contracts), 8 (constituency offices), 9 and 10 (communications allowance), 11 and 12 (travel), 14 (overnight expenses), 15 (resettlement), and 16, 17 and 18 (other SSRB recommendations) be approved; and Page 515      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top (2) that Recommendation 5 be implemented from 1st October 2008, that Recommendation 8 be implemented from 1st April 2010, that Recommendations 9 and 10 be implemented from 1st April 2009, that Recommendations 11 and 12 be implemented from 1st April 2009, that Recommendation 14 be implemented from 1st April 2009 and that Recommendation 15 be implemented at the end of the next Parliament.’, instead thereof.—(Mr Don Touhig.) And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made; The House divided. Tellers for the Ayes, Helen Jones, Anne Moffat: 172. Tellers for the Noes, Nick Harvey, David Maclean: 144. So the Question was agreed to. Another Amendment ((f)) was proposed to the Question, in line 18, at the end to add the words— ‘(4) any allowance for overnight costs arising from Parliamentary duties in London may not be used for accommodation expenses in respect of a residence designated by an hon. Member as his main residence for tax purposes.’.—(John Mann.) And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made:—It was agreed to. And the Main Question, as amended, being put:—It was agreed to. Resolved,—That this House welcomes the Third Report from the Members Estimate Committee: Review of Members Allowances (House of Commons Paper 578); recognises the need to strengthen the system of scrutiny and is of the opinion that a rigorous internal system of audit of the Additional Costs Allowance be introduced covering 25 per cent. of hon. Members each year, and every hon. Member each Parliament; and is of the opinion that— (1) Recommendations 5 (staff contracts), 8 (constituency offices), 9 and 10 (communications allowance), 11 and 12 (travel), 14 (overnight expenses), 15 (resettlement), and 16, 17 and 18 (other SSRB recommendations) be approved; (2) Recommendation 5 be implemented from 1st October 2008, that Recommendation 8 be implemented from 1st April 2010, that Recommendations 9 and 10 be implemented from 1st April 2009, that Recommendations 11 and 12 be implemented from 1st April 2009, that Recommendation 14 be implemented from 1st April 2009 and that Recommendation 15 be implemented at the end of the next Parliament; and (3) any allowance for overnight costs arising from Parliamentary duties in London may not be used for accommodation expenses in respect of a residence designated by an hon. Member as his main residence for tax purposes. 19 Members’ Home Addresses,—Resolved, That this House asserts that the freedom of Members to speak on any matter without the fear or threat of interference or molestation is essential to the effective conduct of parliamentary proceedings; notes that this freedom has long been recognised to be an integral element of the protection afforded to Members enabling them to participate effectively in parliamentary business, and thus that Members must be able to speak on any matter in parliamentary proceedings without threat of interference or molestation; considers that this would be threatened by publication of Members’ home addresses, patterns of travel or other information linked to addresses held by the House authorities revealing details that could threaten their security, and so would prejudice the effective conduct of public affairs; and urges Mr Speaker to take account of these considerations in the discharge of his responsibilities.—(Ms Harriet Harman.) 20 Business of the House,—Ordered, That, in respect of the Criminal Evidence (Witness Anonymity) Bill, notices of Amendments, new Clauses and new Schedules to be moved in Committee may be accepted by the Clerks at the Table before the Bill has been read a second time.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) 21 Adjournment. Subject: Sixtieth anniversary of the NHS (Tony Lloyd). Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Siobhain McDonagh.) And accordingly, the House, having continued to sit till one minute to Six o’clock, adjourned till Monday 7th July. [Adjourned at 5.59 p.m. Page 516      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top APPENDIX I Papers presented or laid upon the Table: Papers subject to Negative Resolution: 1 Companies,—Company Names Adjudicator Rules 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1738), dated 1st July 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Mr Secretary Hutton]. 2 Land Registration,—(1) Adjudicator to Her Majesty’s Land Registry (Practice and Procedure) (Amendment) Rules 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1731), dated 27th June 2008; and (2) Network Access Appeal Rules 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1730), dated 30th June 2008 [by Act], with Explanatory Memoranda thereon [by Command] [Secretary Jack Straw]. 3 National Health Service,—(1) National Health Service (Charges for Drugs and Appliances) and (Travel Expenses and Remission of Charges) Amendment (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1697), dated 26th June 2008; and (2) Primary Ophthalmic Services Amendment, Transitional and Consequential Provisions Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1700), dated 28th June 2008 [by Act], with Explanatory Memoranda thereon [by Command] [Secretary Alan Johnson]. 4 Road Traffic,—(1) Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1702), dated 30th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command]; and (2) Vehicles Crime (Registration of Registration Plate Suppliers) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1715), dated 30th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Ruth Kelly]. 5 Sports Grounds and Sporting Events,—Football Spectators (Seating) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 1749), dated 30th June 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Andy Burnham]. Other Papers: 6 Cereals Marketing,—Report and Accounts of the Home-Grown Cereals Authority for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 669] [Secretary Hilary Benn]. 7 Church Commissioners,—Report and Accounts of the Church Commissioners for 2007 [by Measure] [Secretary Jack Straw]. 8 Contingencies Fund,—Accounts of the Contingencies Fund for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [pursuant to Order this day]; to be printed [No. 879] [Jane Kennedy]. 9 Financial Reporting to Parliament,—Departmental Report 2007–08 for HM Treasury [by Command] [Cm. 7408] [Yvette Cooper]. 10 Government Trading Funds,—Report and Accounts of OGCBuying.Solutions for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 665] [Clerk of the House]. 11 Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development,—Report and Financial Statements of English Partnerships (including the Commission for the New Towns and the Urban Regeneration Agency) for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 700] [Secretary Hazel Blears]. 12 Local Government,—(1) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 11) for 2000; (2) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 12) for 2001; (3) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 13) for 2002; (4) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 14) for 2003; and (5) Local Government Financial Statistics: England (No. 15) for 2004 [by Act] [Secretary Hazel Blears]. Page 517      Thursday 3rd July 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top Papers withdrawn: 13 National Health Service,—Report and Accounts of NHS Business Services Authority for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [No. 714] [laid 30th June]. APPENDIX II Reports from Select Committees 1 Business and Enterprise, Defence, Foreign Affairs and International Development,—Scrutiny of Arms Export Controls (2008): UK Strategic Export Controls Annual Report 2006, Quarterly Reports for 2007, licensing policy and review of export control legislation: First Joint Report from the Business and Enterprise, Defence, Foreign Affairs and International Development Committees, being the Eighth Report from the Business and Enterprise Committee, the Twelfth Report from the Defence Committee, the Eighth Report from the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Eighth Report from the International Development Committee, with Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committees relating to the Report, and Memoranda reported and ordered to be published on 17th January, 20th March and 19th May [No. 254] [Roger Berry]. 2 Health,—Foundation Trusts and Monitor: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Health Committee; to be printed [No. 833-i] [Mr Kevin Barron]. 3 Liaison,—The Prime Minister: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Liaison Committee; to be printed [No. 192-ii] [Mr Alan Williams]. [No. 123; WH, No. 80] Thursday 3rd July 2008. The House sitting in Westminster Hall The sitting began at half-past Two o’clock.   Adjournment. Subject: Women with particular vulnerabilities in the criminal justice system. Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Mark Tami.) And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till Tuesday 8th July. [Adjourned at 6.18 p.m. Previous Chronological Index Next   Part I Alphabetical Index Part II Alphabetical Index     © Parliamentary copyright 2010 Prepared 16 September 2010