Session 2007-08

Commons Journal 264

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


Previous Next

Page 670            2007-08      Volume 264      

[No. 155.]

Monday 10th November 2008.

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

PRAYERS.

1First Delegated Legislation Committee,—Sir John Butterfill reported from the First Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Legal Services Act 2007 (Functions of a Designated Regulator) Order 2008.

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

2Opposition Day [20th allotted day],—It being an allotted day at the disposal of the leader of the second largest opposition party in pursuance of Standing Order No. 14 (Arrangement of public business), the House proceeded to consider Opposition business.

Economic crisis,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House is concerned at the increasing difficulties caused by the current economic crisis to many British citizens in maintaining their homes, paying their bills and providing for themselves and their families; believes that these problems originated not just in the global financial system but in unsustainable levels of personal borrowing and house prices which were overlooked by Government policy; is alarmed at the steep rise in mortgage arrears and repossession orders; regrets that, despite receiving £500 billion of taxpayers’ money, the banking industry has failed to respond adequately to the needs of its customers or modify sufficiently its behaviour in respect of mortgage interest rates, new lending to struggling small businesses and its bonus culture; notes that the Bank of England has implemented the 2 per cent. cut in interest rates which the Liberal Democrats called for and urges it to make further cuts if the economy deteriorates further; and calls on the Government to introduce an immediate substantial cut in income tax to benefit low income and standard rate taxpayers, paid for by wealthy individuals who profited disproportionately from the economic boom and who do not pay their fair share of tax—(Dr Vincent Cable);

An Amendment was proposed to the Question, in line 2, to leave out from the word ‘House’ to the end of the Question and add the words ‘notes that the Government’s actions mean that the economy is entering a period of global downturn with unemployment, inflation and interest rates all much lower than in previous slowdowns, and with debt reduced from 43 per cent. of gross domestic product in 1997 to below 36 per cent. last year; welcomes the extra investment in public services and public servants that this has enabled to compensate for historical underinvestment both in infrastructure and services in every region; supports the Government’s global leadership and action to tackle both the causes and effects of the financial and economic turmoil on an international level; welcomes the Government’s timely support to protect financial stability and consequently depositors, business and the wider economy; further notes that as a condition of this support the Government has demanded support in turn for homeowners and small and medium size businesses; further notes the action that has been taken in the court system and through mortgage interest support to enable people to stay in their homes, and the provision of £360 million to help small and medium size businesses under the Train to Gain initiative; and further notes that Government action to support families, individuals and businesses across the UK through the tougher times ahead includes extra tax credits, cutting income tax, freezing fuel duty, further winter fuel payments and increases in Child Benefit’, instead thereof.—(Angela Eagle.)

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

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Bob Russell, John Hemming: 58.

Tellers for the Noes, Helen Goodman, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 303.

So the Question was negatived.

And the Question, That the proposed words be there added, being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 31 (Questions on amendments);

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Helen Goodman, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 289.

Tellers for the Noes, Bob Russell, John Hemming: 216.

So the Question was agreed to.

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

Page 671      Monday 10th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

Resolved, That this House notes that the Government’s actions mean that the economy is entering a period of global downturn with unemployment, inflation and interest rates all much lower than in previous slowdowns, and with debt reduced from 43 per cent. of gross domestic product in 1997 to below 36 per cent. last year; welcomes the extra investment in public services and public servants that this has enabled to compensate for historical underinvestment both in infrastructure and services in every region; supports the Government’s global leadership and action to tackle both the causes and effects of the financial and economic turmoil on an international level; welcomes the Government’s timely support to protect financial stability and consequently depositors, business and the wider economy; further notes that as a condition of this support the Government has demanded support in turn for homeowners and small and medium size businesses; further notes the action that has been taken in the court system and through mortgage interest support to enable people to stay in their homes, and the provision of £360 million to help small and medium size businesses under the Train to Gain initiative; and further notes that Government action to support families, individuals and businesses across the UK through the tougher times ahead includes extra tax credits, cutting income tax, freezing fuel duty, further winter fuel payments and increases in Child Benefit.

Renewal of the Post Office Card Account,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House notes with concern the fact that the Department for Work and Pensions has written to Post Office card account holders informing them that the Post Office card account contract ends in 2010; further notes that Post Office card account holders, many of whom have made a conscious decision to support the Post Office by retaining their card account, are being instructed to take out bank accounts in order to receive benefits beyond 2010; expresses its dismay at the fact that the letter does not mention the fact that a replacement for the current card account is currently out to tender, or make any mention of other Post Office products or services; believes that this is a deliberate attempt to encourage people to switch payment to direct debit and remove the role of the Post Office; further notes the additional damage inflicted on the Post Office by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, which is currently sending out licence renewal reminders as part of a communications campaign which makes no mention of the Post Office; calls on Ministers in the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform to encourage Ministers in the Department for Work and Pensions to consider the impact on communities across the country if the Post Office card account is not renewed; and encourages all Government departments to make their services available through post offices in order to ensure that they have a viable future—(Jenny Willott);

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 the importance of the services offered by the Post Office to local communities; further notes that the Government has worked with the Post Office to make available services such as its own banking and financial services and access to high street banks’ basic accounts; further notes that the Post Office is now the largest provider of foreign exchange in the UK and amongst the largest suppliers of travel insurance, car insurance and telephone services; further notes the potential for future ID management business for the Post Office for passports, driving licences and ID cards; welcomes the commitment of the Government to provide £1.7 billion of support up to 2011 to maintain a national post office network and access to Post Office products, in contrast to no subsidy before 1997; further notes the importance of the Post Office card account in helping people to access basic banking services; welcomes the decision to offer this type of product beyond 2010; further notes that this product is currently out to tender; and believes that people should be aware of the Post Office card account product alongside other methods of payment’, instead thereof.—(Secretary James Purnell.)

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

Mr Paul Burstow 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, Paul Rowen, Richard Younger-Ross: 240.

Tellers for the Noes, Ian Lucas, Steve McCabe: 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);

Page 672      Monday 10th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Ian Lucas, Steve McCabe: 279.

Tellers for the Noes, Paul Rowen, Richard Younger-Ross: 232.

So the Question was agreed to.

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

Resolved, That this House notes the importance of the services offered by the Post Office to local communities; further notes that the Government has worked with the Post Office to make available services such as its own banking and financial services and access to high street banks’ basic accounts; further notes that the Post Office is now the largest provider of foreign exchange in the UK and amongst the largest suppliers of travel insurance, car insurance and telephone services; further notes the potential for future ID management business for the Post Office for passports, driving licences and ID cards; welcomes the commitment of the Government to provide £1.7 billion of support up to 2011 to maintain a national post office network and access to Post Office products, in contrast to no subsidy before 1997; further notes the importance of the Post Office card account in helping people to access basic banking services; welcomes the decision to offer this type of product beyond 2010; further notes that this product is currently out to tender; and believes that people should be aware of the Post Office card account product alongside other methods of payment.

3Official Statistics,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Pre-release Access to Official Statistics Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 21st July, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

4Civil Aviation,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Air Navigation (Environmental Standards for Non-EASA Aircraft) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 6th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

5Industrial Organisation and Development,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Wool Textile Industry (Export Promotion Levy) (Revocation) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 6th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

6Social Security,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Social Security (Lone Parents and Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 6th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

7Tribunals and Inquiries,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Judicial Appointments Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 6th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

8Immigration,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment No. 3) Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 6th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

9Disabled 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 Exemption Orders (Parliamentary Procedures) Regulations 2008, which were laid before this House on 9th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

10Disabled 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 (London Underground Victoria Line 09TS Vehicles) Exemption Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 9th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

11Dangerous Drugs,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (Amendment) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 13th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler);

Page 673      Monday 10th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

And the Speaker’s opinion as to the decision of the Question being challenged, the Division was deferred till Wednesday 12th November, pursuant to Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions).

12Children and Young Persons,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (Prescribed Criteria) (Foreign Offences) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

13Children and Young Persons,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (Transitory Provisions) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th October, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

14Regulatory Reform,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 18 (Consideration of draft legislative reform orders), That the draft Legislative Reform (Lloyd’s) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 17th July, be approved—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

15Facing the Challenge of Higher Oil Prices,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 119 (European Committees), That this House takes note of European Union Document No. 10824/08, Commission Communication on Facing the Challenge of Higher Oil Prices; and welcomes the Government’s support for appropriate action at the European level, where this would be effective in furthering energy efficiency, security of supply and the development of a liberalised energy market within the Union, and the Government’s own response to higher oil prices, in particular the Global Energy Initiative—(Ms Dawn Butler):—It was agreed to.

16Northern Ireland Affairs,—Ordered, That Mr Gregory Campbell and Sammy Wilson be discharged from the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee and David Simpson and Mrs Iris Robinson be added.—(Rosemary McKenna, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.)

17Transport,—Ordered, That David Simpson be discharged from the Transport Committee and Sammy Wilson be added.—(Rosemary McKenna, on behalf of the Committee of Selection.)

18Public Petitions,—Public Petitions from—

(1) residents of Islwyn, and others relating to health (asbestosis and mesothelioma);

(2) residents of Cumbria and others relating to universities (Cumbria); and

(3) Christopher Rankin, residents of New Park Road, Benfleet and others relating to traffic management (Essex)

were presented and read.

19Adjournment.

Subject: Support for Gloucester City Football Club (Mr Parmjit Dhanda).

Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Ms Dawn Butler.)

And accordingly, the House, having continued to sit till Eleven o’clock, adjourned till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 11 p.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers delivered to the Votes and Proceedings Office on Friday 7th November 2008 pursuant to Standing Order No. 159 (Presentation of statutory instruments):

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

1Merchant Shipping,—Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2851), dated 4th November 2008, with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [Secretary Geoff Hoon].

Page 674      Monday 10th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

2Police,—(1) Police (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2865); and

(2) Police (Complaints and Misconduct) (Amendment) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2866),

dated 5th November 2008, with Explanatory Memoranda thereon [Secretary Jacqui Smith].

3Recovery of Taxes,—Recovery of Taxes etc Due in Other Member States (Amendment of section 134 of the Finance Act 2002) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2871), dated 7th November 2008, with an Explanatory Memorandum [Stephen Timms].

Papers presented or laid upon the Table on Monday 10th November 2008:

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

4Consumer Protection,—REACH Enforcement Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2852), dated 1st November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Hilary Benn].

5Land Registration,—Land Registration Act 2002 (Amendment) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2872), dated 6th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Jack Straw].

6National Health Service,—National Health Service (Travel Expenses and Remission of Charges) Amendment (No. 2) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2868), dated 5th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Alan Johnson].

7Town and Country Planning,—Crossrail (Planning Appeals) (Written Representations Procedure) (England) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2908), dated 10th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Geoff Hoon].

Other Papers:

8House of Commons Members’ Fund,—Accounts of the House of Commons Members’ Fund for 2006–07, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 1180] [Clerk of the House].

9Northern Ireland (Monitoring Commission etc.),—Twentieth Report of the Independent Monitoring Commission [by Act]; to be printed [No. 1112] [Mr Secretary Woodward].

APPENDIX II

General Committees

1Political Parties and Elections Bill,—The Speaker has appointed Mr Peter Atkinson as an additional Chairman of the Political Parties and Elections Bill Committee.

2Draft Legal Services Act 2007 (Functions of a Designated Regulator) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Linda Gilroy and Paddy Tipping from the First Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Graham Stringer and David Wright.

Grand Committees

3Northern Ireland Grand Committee,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Quentin Davies from the Northern Ireland Grand Committee and nominated in substitution Helen Goodman.

APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1Children, Schools and Families,—National Curriculum: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Children, Schools and Families Committee; to be printed [No. 651-vi] [Mr Barry Sheerman].

2Communities and Local Government,—(1) The Balance of Power: Central and Local Government: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Communities and Local Government Committee; to be printed [No. 813-iii]; and

Page 675      Monday 10th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

(2) Housing and the Credit Crunch: Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published

[Dr Phyllis Starkey].

3Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills,—Geo-engineering:

(i) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Committee; to be printed [No. 1064-i]; and

(ii) Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published

[Mr Phil Willis].

4Public Accounts,—(1) Tackling the hidden economy: Fifty-fifth Report from the Committee of Public Accounts, to be printed with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 712]; and

(2) Fire and Rescue Service: The New Dimension Programme: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed [No. 1184-i]

[Mr Edward Leigh].


[No. 156.]

Tuesday 11th November 2008.

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

PRAYERS.

1Regulatory Reform,—Andrew Miller reported from the Regulatory Reform Committee the following Resolution:

That the draft Legislative Reform (Verification of Weighing and Measuring Equipment) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 20th October, should be approved.

The Committee came to this Resolution without a Division.

2Banking Bill,—Mr Roger Gale reported a Memorandum from the Banking Bill Committee.

Memorandum to lie upon the Table and to be published.

3Second Delegated Legislation Committee,—Robert Key reported from the Second Delegated Legislation Committee the draft International Criminal Court (Remand Time) Order 2008.

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

4Third Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Eric Martlew reported from the Third Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Medical Profession (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2008.

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

5Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Peter Atkinson reported from the Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2008.

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

6Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords as follows:

The Lords agree to the Education and Skills Bill, with Amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House.

Torture (Damages) Bill [Lords],—The Lords have passed a bill to make provision for actions for damages for torture; and for connected purposes; to which the Lords desire the concurrence of this House.

7Education and Skills Bill,—Lords Amendments to the Education and Skills Bill to be considered to-morrow; and to be printed [Bill 164].

Ordered, That the Explanatory Notes relating to the Lords Amendments to the Education and Skills Bill be printed [Bill 164–EN].

8Remembrance Day Bank Holiday Bill,—Mr Frank Field presented a Bill to designate 11th November as an annual public holiday in the United Kingdom; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 21st November and to be printed [Bill 162].

Page 676      Tuesday 11th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

9Police (Justice Commissioners),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to provide for the replacement of police authorities with elected justice commissioners; to make provision regarding the duties and powers of justice commissioners; and for connected purposes—(Mr Douglas Carswell);

And the Motion being opposed, after permitting a short explanatory statement from the Member who made the Motion and from a Member who opposed it, the Deputy Speaker put the Question, pursuant to Standing Order No. 23 (Motions for leave to bring in bills and nomination of select committees at commencement of public business):—It was agreed to.

Ordered, That Mr Douglas Carswell, Mr Frank Field, Mrs Nadine Dorries, Mr Mark Field, Mr Philip Hollobone, Mr Richard Shepherd, Mr Peter Bone, Mr Charles Walker, Mr Graham Allen, Mr Stephen Crabb and Daniel Kawczynski do prepare and bring in the Bill.

10Police (Justice Commissioners) Bill,—Mr Douglas Carswell accordingly presented a Bill to provide for the replacement of police authorities with elected justice commissioners; to make provision regarding the duties and powers of justice commissioners; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 21st November and to be printed [Bill 161].

11Adding Capacity to Heathrow,—Resolved, That this House has considered the matter of adding capacity to Heathrow.—(Mr Geoffrey Hoon.)

12Legal Services,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Legal Services Act 2007 (Functions of a Designated Regulator) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 22nd October, be approved—(Mr Ian Austin):—It was agreed to.

13Public Petitions,—Public Petitions from—

(1) residents of Chorley and others relating to Post Office Card Account; and

(2) The London Global Table (an association of people concerned for Global Justice) and others of like disposition relating to finance (public projects)

were presented and read.

14Adjournment.

Subject: Lockerbie rail services (David Mundell).

A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House do now adjourn—(Mr Dave Watts);

And the Motion having been made after Ten o’clock, and the Debate having continued for half an hour, the Deputy Speaker adjourned the House without Question put, pursuant to the Standing Order, it being then twenty-eight minutes to Eleven o’clock, till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 10.32 p.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Other Papers:

1Charities,—Accounts of the National Army Museum for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 1181] [Clerk of the House].

2Communities and Local Government,—Government Response to the Tenth Report from the Communities and Local Government Committee, Session 2007–08, on Community Cohesion and Migration [by Command] [Cm. 7489] [Secretary Hazel Blears].

3Development of Tourism,—Report of VisitEngland for 2007–08 [by Act] [Secretary Andy Burnham].

4Environmental Pollution,—Twenty-seventh Report of the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution, on Novel Materials in the Environment: The case of nanotechnology [by Command] [Cm. 7468] [Secretary Jack Straw].

5Reserve Forces,—Report under section 54(7) of the Reserve Forces Act 1996 on the making of a call-out order for Afghanistan under section 54(1) of that Act, dated 11 November 2008 [by Act] [Mr Secretary Hutton].

Page 677      Tuesday 11th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

APPENDIX II

General Committees

1Draft International Criminal Court (Remand Time) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Jim Devine, Patrick Hall, Dr Stephen Ladyman and Mr Ian McCartney from the Second Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mr John Heppell, Keith Hill, Phil Wilson and Mr Virendra Sharma.

2Draft Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Jeremy Corbyn and Mr Alan Milburn from the Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mr David S. Borrow and Rob Marris.

3Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2424),—The Committee of Selection has discharged Peter Viggers from the Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the Regulations) and nominated in substitution John Howell.

APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1Administration,—Record of the Administration Committee’s discussions at its meeting on 11th November; to be published [Mr Frank Doran].

2Business and Enterprise,—(1) Companies House: Thirteenth Report from the Business and Enterprise Committee, with Memoranda; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 456];

(2) Construction matters: Government Response to the Business and Enterprise Committee’s Ninth Report of Session 2007–08: Tenth Special Report from the Committee; to be printed [No. 1187]; and

(3) Consumer Focus: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed [No. 1082-i]

[Peter Luff].

3Culture, Media and Sport,—The Licensing Act 2003:

(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Culture, Media and Sport Committee; to be printed [No. 1093-iii]; and

(2) Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published

[Mr John Whittingdale].

4Environmental Audit,—(1) Making Government Operations More Sustainable: A Progress Report: Government Response to the Committee’s Seventh Report of Session 2007–08: Eighth Special Report from the Environmental Audit Committee; to be printed [No. 1126]; and

(2) Climate change and local, regional and devolved government: Government Response to the Committee’s Eighth Report of Session 2007–08: Ninth Special Report from the Committee; to be printed [No. 1189]

[Mr Tim Yeo].

5Home Affairs,—Managing Migration: Draft Immigration and Citizenship Bill: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Home Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 1130-ii] [Keith Vaz].

6Human Rights,—(1) Counter-terrorism policy and human rights: Memorandum laid before the Joint Committee on Human Rights; to be published;

(2) Pre-legislative scrutiny: Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published; and

(3) UN Convention Against Torture: Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published

[Mr Andrew Dismore].

7Justice,—Justice Reinvestment: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Justice Committee; to be printed [No. 425-viii] [Sir Alan Beith].

Page 678      Tuesday 11th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

8Public Administration,—(1) From Citizen’s Charter to Public Service Guarantees: Entitlements to Public Services: Government Response to the Twelfth Report from the Committee: Twelfth Special Report from the Select Committee on Public Administration, with an Appendix; to be printed [No. 1147];

(2) Equitable Life:

(i) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee; to be printed [No. 1143-ii];

(ii) Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published; and

(3) Lobbying: Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published

[Dr Tony Wright].

9Regulatory Reform,—(1) Draft Legislative Reform (Verification of Measuring and Weighing Equipment) Order 2008: Seventh Report from the Regulatory Reform Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 1185]; and

(2) Getting Results: the Better Regulation Executive and the Impact of the Regulatory Reform Agenda: Government Response to the Committee’s Fifth Report of Session 2007–08: First Special Report from the Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 1186]

[Andrew Miller].

10Standards and Privileges,—Ms Dari Taylor: Eighteenth Report from the Committee on Standards and Privileges, with Appendices; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 1188] [Sir George Young].

11Treasury,—Banking Crisis:

(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Treasury Committee; to be printed [No. 1167-ii]; and

(2) Memoranda laid before the Committee

[John McFall].

12Welsh Affairs,—The provision of cross-border public services for Wales:

(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Welsh Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 401-xiv]; and

(2) Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published

[Dr Hywel Francis].


[No. 156; WH, No. 103]

Tuesday 11th November 2008.

The House sitting in Westminster Hall

The sitting began at half-past Nine o’clock.

 Adjournment.

Subjects:

Housing provision in Greater London (Jeremy Corbyn).

At Eleven o’clock the House sitting in Westminster Hall observed two minutes’ silence in remembrance of those who gave their lives for their country

Law relating to assisted dying (Dr Evan Harris).

Local government boundary review in Devon (Mr Adrian Sanders).

Government policy on bank lending (Mr George Mudie).

Funding of schools in Torridge and West Devon (Mr Geoffrey Cox).

Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Chris Mole.)

And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 1.59 p.m.


Page 679      Tuesday 11th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

[No. 157.]

Wednesday 12th November 2008.

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

PRAYERS.

1Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee,—John Bercow reported from the Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft Youth Justice Board for England and Wales (Amendment) Order 2008.

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

2Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee,—Mr Greg Pope reported from the Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee the draft National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence) (Social Welfare and Other Fields) Order 2008.

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

3New Member sworn,—Lindsay Roy Esquire, Member for Glenrothes, was sworn.

4Interest Rates (Maximum Limit),—Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a Bill to make provision for a maximum limit for interest rates to be prescribed; and for connected purposes: And that Mr Jim Devine, Mr Mohammad Sarwar, John Bercow, Keith Hill, Mr Brian Binley, Mark Durkan, Ms Katy Clark, Mr Tom Clarke, John Barrett, Mr David Anderson and Jon Cruddas do prepare and bring it in.

5Interest Rates (Maximum Limit) Bill,—Mr Jim Devine accordingly presented a Bill to make provision for a maximum limit for interest rates to be prescribed; and for connected purposes: And the same was read the first time; and ordered to be read a second time on Friday 21st November and to be printed [Bill 163].

6Business of the House,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That, at this day’s sitting, the Speaker shall put the Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings on:

(1) the Motions in the name of Ms Harriet Harman relating to Regional Accountability, Regional Select Committees, Pay for Chairmen of Select Committees and Regional Grand Committees not later than one and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings on the first such Motion;

(2) the Motions in the name of Ms Harriet Harman relating to European Scrutiny (Standing Orders) and Modernisation of the House of Commons (Changes to Standing Orders) not later than one and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings on the first such Motion; and

(3) the Motion in the name of Ms Harriet Harman relating to the Speaker’s Conference not later than one hour after the commencement of proceedings on that Motion;

such Questions shall include the Questions on any Amendments selected by the Speaker which may then be moved; proceedings may continue after the moment of interruption; and Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions) shall not apply—(Chris Bryant);

Mr Nicholas Brown 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 Bob Blizzard, Mr Dave Watts: 258.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Richard Benyon, Jeremy Wright: 223.

So the Question was agreed to.

7Regional Accountability,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House welcomes the Third Report from the Select Committee on Modernisation of the House of Commons on Regional Accountability (House of Commons Paper No. 282); approves the proposals for regional select and grand committees for each of the English regions set out in the response from the Government in the White Paper, Regional Accountability (Cm. 7376); accordingly endorses the clear expectation that the regional select committees should meet significantly less frequently than departmental select committees; and considers that the combination of select committees providing opportunities for inquiries and reports into regional policy and administration together with opportunities for debate involving all honourable Members from the relevant region will provide a major step forward in the scrutiny of regional policy—(Ms Harriet Harman);

Page 680      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

An Amendment ((c)) was proposed to the Question, in line 3, to leave out from ‘282)’ to the word ‘opportunities’ in line 10 and insert the words ‘approves the proposals for regional grand committees for each English region set out in the response from the Government contained in the White Paper, Regional Accountability (Cm. 7376); and considers that’, instead thereof.—(Mrs Theresa May.)

Question proposed, That the Amendment be made.

8Deferred Divisions,—The Deputy Speaker announced the results of the Division which had been deferred to this day, pursuant to Standing Order No. 41A (Deferred divisions):

Dangerous Drugs,—That the draft Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (Amendment) Order Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 13th October, be approved.

Ayes: 430.

Noes: 54.

So the Question was agreed to.

9Regional Accountability,—The Question being again proposed, That the Amendment be made;

And it being one and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings on the Motion, the Deputy Speaker put the Question, pursuant to Order [this day].

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Richard Benyon, James Duddridge: 233.

Tellers for the Noes, Helen Goodman, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 250.

So the Question was negatived.

The Deputy Speaker then proceeded to put the remaining Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings to be concluded at that hour.

Another Amendment ((a)) was proposed to the Question, in line 6, after ‘(Cm. 7376)’, to insert the words ‘except that chairmen of regional select committees shall not be paid.’. —(Andrew Mackinlay.)

And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Kelvin Hopkins, Paul Flynn: 239.

Tellers for the Noes, Ms Diana R. Johnson, Helen Goodman: 237.

So the Question was agreed to.

And the Main Question, as amended, being put;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Helen Goodman, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 254.

Tellers for the Noes, Mr Richard Benyon, James Duddridge: 224.

So the Question was agreed to.

Resolved, That this House welcomes the Third Report from the Select Committee on Modernisation of the House of Commons on Regional Accountability (House of Commons Paper No. 282); approves the proposals for regional select and grand committees for each of the English regions set out in the response from the Government in the White Paper, Regional Accountability (Cm. 7376), except that chairmen of regional select committees shall not be paid; accordingly endorses the clear expectation that the regional select committees should meet significantly less frequently than departmental select committees; and considers that the combination of select committees providing opportunities for inquiries and reports into regional policy and administration together with opportunities for debate involving all honourable Members from the relevant region will provide a major step forward in the scrutiny of regional policy.

10Regional Select Committees,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the following new Standing Order and Amendment to temporary Standing Orders be made, with effect from 1st January 2009 until the end of the current Parliament—

Page 681      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

A. New Standing Order

Regional select committees

(1) Select committees shall be appointed to examine regional strategies and the work of regional bodies for each of the following English regions:

(a) East Midlands

(b) East of England

(c) North East

(d) North West

(e) South East

(f) South West

(g) West Midlands

(h) Yorkshire and the Humber.

(2) Each committee appointed under this order shall consist of not more than nine members; and, unless the House otherwise orders, all Members nominated to a committee shall continue to be members of that committee for the remainder of the Parliament.

(3) A committee appointed under this order shall have power—

(a) to send for persons, papers and records, to sit notwithstanding any adjournment of the House, to adjourn to any place within the United Kingdom, and to report from time to time;

(b) to appoint specialist advisers either to supply information which is not readily available or to elucidate matters of complexity within the committee’s order of reference;

(c) to invite—

(i) Members of the House who are not members of the committee but represent constituencies within the region in respect of which it is appointed, and

(ii) specified elected councillors from the region in respect of which it is appointed

to attend and participate in its proceedings at specified meetings (but not to move motions or amendments, vote or be counted in the quorum).

B. Amendment to Temporary Standing Order of 13th July 2005:

Liaison Committee (Membership)

At end add—

(4) In addition to the members appointed under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this order, one Member who is for the time being the Chairman of a Regional Select Committee shall be a member of the Liaison Committee.

(5) The question on a motion in the names of the chairmen of all the Regional Select Committees to nominate a member of the Liaison Committee under paragraph (4) shall be put forthwith and may be decided after the moment of interruption—(Chris Bryant);

An Amendment ((b)) was proposed to the Question, in line 17, after first ‘members’ to insert the words ‘who represent constituencies within the relevant region’.—(Simon Hughes.)

And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Richard Younger-Ross, John Hemming: 90.

Tellers for the Noes, Helen Goodman, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 235.

So the Question was negatived.

Another Amendment ((c)) was proposed to the Question, in line 19, at end, to insert the words—

‘(2A) In nominating Members to the Committees under this order, the Committee of Selection shall have regard to the proportion of Members of each party representing constituencies in the relevant region;

(2B) Notwithstanding paragraph (2A), the Committee of Selection shall nominate at least one Member from each of the three largest parties to each Committee.’—(Simon Hughes.)

And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made;

Page 682      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Paul Rowen, John Hemming: 229.

Tellers for the Noes, Helen Goodman, Ms Diana R. Johnson: 231.

So the Question was negatived.

An Amendment ((d)) was made to the Main Question, in line 29, to leave out from ‘appointed’ to the end of line 32—(Andrew Mackinlay.)

And the Main Question, as amended, being put:—It was agreed to.

Ordered, That the following new Standing Order and Amendment to temporary Standing Orders be made, with effect from 1st January 2009 until the end of the current Parliament—

A. New Standing Order

Regional select committees

(1) Select committees shall be appointed to examine regional strategies and the work of regional bodies for each of the following English regions:

(a) East Midlands

(b) East of England

(c) North East

(d) North West

(e) South East

(f) South West

(g) West Midlands

(h) Yorkshire and the Humber.

(2) Each committee appointed under this order shall consist of not more than nine members; and, unless the House otherwise orders, all Members nominated to a committee shall continue to be members of that committee for the remainder of the Parliament.

(3) A committee appointed under this order shall have power—

(a) to send for persons, papers and records, to sit notwithstanding any adjournment of the House, to adjourn to any place within the United Kingdom, and to report from time to time;

(b) to appoint specialist advisers either to supply information which is not readily available or to elucidate matters of complexity within the committee’s order of reference;

(c) to invite Members of the House who are not members of the committee but represent constituencies within the region in respect of which it is appointed to attend and participate in its proceedings at specified meetings (but not to move motions or amendments, vote or be counted in the quorum).

B. Amendment to Temporary Standing Order of 13th July 2005:

Liaison Committee (Membership)

At end add—

(4) In addition to the members appointed under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this order, one Member who is for the time being the Chairman of a Regional Select Committee shall be a member of the Liaison Committee.

(5) The question on a motion in the names of the chairmen of all the Regional Select Committees to nominate a member of the Liaison Committee under paragraph (4) shall be put forthwith and may be decided after the moment of interruption.

11Regional Grand Committees,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the following new Standing Orders be made, with effect from 1st January 2009 until the end of the current Parliament—

A. Regional grand committees

(1) There shall be general committees, called Regional Grand Committees, for each of the following English regions:

(a) East Midlands

(b) East of England

(c) North East

(d) North West

(e) South East

Page 683      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

(f) South West

(g) West Midlands

(h) Yorkshire and the Humber

which in each case shall consist of those Members who represent constituencies within the region and up to five other Members nominated by the Committee of Selection, which shall have power from time to time to discharge the Members so nominated by it and to appoint others in their place.

(2) A motion may be made by a Minister of the Crown providing for—

(a) a Regional Grand Committee to sit on a specified day at a specified place in the region to which it relates or at Westminster;

(b) the time and duration of such a sitting; and

(c) the business as provided in paragraph (4) to be conducted at it.

(3) The question on a motion under paragraph (2) shall be put forthwith and may be decided after the moment of interruption.

(4) The business of the committees may include—

(a) questions tabled in accordance with Standing Order (Regional Grand Committees (questions for oral answer));

(b) statements by a Minister of the Crown, in accordance with paragraph (5) below;

(c) general debates on specified matters.

(5) The chairman may permit a Minister of the Crown, whether or not a Member of the House, to make a statement and to answer questions thereon put by members of the committee; but no question shall be taken after the expiry of a period of 45 minutes from the commencement of such a statement.

(6) If the House has resolved that the business at a sitting of a committee shall be concluded at a certain hour and it has not otherwise been concluded before that time the chairman shall, at that time, adjourn the committee without question put and any business then under consideration shall lapse.

B. Regional Grand Committees (questions for oral answer)

(1) Notices of questions for oral answer in a Regional Grand Committee by the relevant regional minister, on a day specified in an order made under paragraph (2) of Standing Order (Regional grand committees), may be given by members of the committee in the Table Office.

(2) Notices of questions given under this order shall bear an indication that they are for oral answer in a specific Regional Grand Committee.

(3) No more than one notice of a question may be given under this order by any member of the committee for each day specified for the taking of questions.

(4) On any day so specified, questions shall be taken at the time provided for in an order under paragraph (2) of Standing Order (Regional Grand Committees); no question shall be taken later than three quarters of an hour after the commencement of the proceedings thereon; and replies to questions not reached shall be printed with the official report of the committee’s debates for that day.

(5) Notices of questions under this order may be given ten sitting days before that on which an answer is desired save where otherwise provided by a memorandum under paragraph (8) of Standing Order No. 22 (Notices of questions, motions and amendments), provided that when it is proposed that the House shall adjourn for a period of fewer than four days, any day during that period (other than a Saturday or a Sunday) shall be counted as a sitting day for the purposes of the calculation made under this paragraph—(Ms Harriet Harman);

An Amendment ((a)) was made to the Main Question, in line 2, after the word ‘made’, to insert ‘and Standing Order No. 117 (Regional Affairs Committee) be suspended’.—(Sir George Young.)

Another Amendment ((c)) was proposed to the Question, in line 16, to leave out from the word ‘region’ to the end of line 18.—(Simon Hughes.)

And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, John Hemming, Paul Rowen: 107.

Tellers for the Noes, Ms Diana R. Johnson, Helen Goodman: 219.

So the Question was negatived.

And the Main Question, as amended, being put:—It was agreed to.

Page 684      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

Ordered, That the following new Standing Orders be made and Standing Order No. 117 (Regional Affairs Committee) be suspended, with effect from 1st January 2009 until the end of the current Parliament—

A. Regional grand committees

(1) There shall be general committees, called Regional Grand Committees, for each of the following English regions:

(a) East Midlands

(b) East of England

(c) North East

(d) North West

(e) South East

(f) South West

(g) West Midlands

(h) Yorkshire and the Humber

which in each case shall consist of those Members who represent constituencies within the region and up to five other Members nominated by the Committee of Selection, which shall have power from time to time to discharge the Members so nominated by it and to appoint others in their place.

(2) A motion may be made by a Minister of the Crown providing for—

(a) a Regional Grand Committee to sit on a specified day at a specified place in the region to which it relates or at Westminster;

(b) the time and duration of such a sitting; and

(c) the business as provided in paragraph (4) to be conducted at it.

(3) The question on a motion under paragraph (2) shall be put forthwith and may be decided after the moment of interruption.

(4) The business of the committees may include—

(a) questions tabled in accordance with Standing Order (Regional Grand Committees (questions for oral answer));

(b) statements by a Minister of the Crown, in accordance with paragraph (5) below;

(c) general debates on specified matters.

(5) The chairman may permit a Minister of the Crown, whether or not a Member of the House, to make a statement and to answer questions thereon put by members of the committee; but no question shall be taken after the expiry of a period of 45 minutes from the commencement of such a statement.

(6) If the House has resolved that the business at a sitting of a committee shall be concluded at a certain hour and it has not otherwise been concluded before that time the chairman shall, at that time, adjourn the committee without question put and any business then under consideration shall lapse.

B. Regional Grand Committees (questions for oral answer)

(1) Notices of questions for oral answer in a Regional Grand Committee by the relevant regional minister, on a day specified in an order made under paragraph (2) of Standing Order (Regional grand committees), may be given by members of the committee in the Table Office.

(2) Notices of questions given under this order shall bear an indication that they are for oral answer in a specific Regional Grand Committee.

(3) No more than one notice of a question may be given under this order by any member of the committee for each day specified for the taking of questions.

(4) On any day so specified, questions shall be taken at the time provided for in an order under paragraph (2) of Standing Order (Regional Grand Committees); no question shall be taken later than three quarters of an hour after the commencement of the proceedings thereon; and replies to questions not reached shall be printed with the official report of the committee’s debates for that day.

(5) Notices of questions under this order may be given ten sitting days before that on which an answer is desired save where otherwise provided by a memorandum under paragraph (8) of Standing Order No. 22 (Notices of questions, motions and amendments), provided that when it is proposed that the House shall adjourn for a period of fewer than four days, any day during that period (other than a Saturday or a Sunday) shall be counted as a sitting day for the purposes of the calculation made under this paragraph.

Page 685      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

12European Scrutiny (Standing Orders),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the Amendments to Standing Order No. 119 and the Amendments to nomenclature in the Standing Orders agreed to by this House on 7th February 2008, shall have permanent effect from 1st January 2009—(Chris Bryant);

An Amendment ((a)) was proposed to the Question, in line 4, at end to add the words ‘and that paragraph 10 of Standing Order No. 143 be replaced by the following paragraph:

(10) Each such Committee shall determine at the beginning of each meeting whether any part of or all of its business that day shall be conducted in private;

and that the Standing Order, as amended, shall have permanent effect from 1st January 2009.’.—(Mrs Theresa May.)

And it being one and a half hours after the commencement of proceedings on the Motion, the Deputy Speaker put the Question, pursuant to Order [this day].

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Richard Benyon, Jeremy Wright: 195.

Tellers for the Noes, Mark Tami, Chris Mole: 201.

So the Question was negatived.

The Deputy Speaker then proceeded to put the remaining Questions necessary to dispose of proceedings to be concluded at that hour.

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

Ordered, That the Amendments to Standing Order No. 119 and the Amendments to nomenclature in the Standing Orders agreed to by this House on 7th February 2008, shall have permanent effect from 1st January 2009.

13Modernisation of the House of Commons (Changes to Standing Orders),—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That the Amendments to the Standing Orders and new Orders, agreed to by this House on 25th October 2007, relating to the recommendations of the Select Committee on Modernisation of the House of Commons in its First Report of Session 2006–07, Revitalising the Chamber: the role of the back bench Member (House of Commons Paper No. 337 of Session 2006–07) and the Government response thereto (Cm. 7231) shall have permanent effect with the following Amendments—

(1) In Standing Order No. 24A (Topical debates)—

(d) in line 19, leave out ‘six’ and insert ‘ten’; and

(e) in line 24, leave out from ‘to’ to the end of line 26 and insert ‘a maximum of five interventions.’.

(2) In Standing Order No. 24B (Amendments to motions to consider specified matters)—

(a) in line 1, after ‘Speaker’, insert ‘or the Chairman’; and

(b) in line 2, after ‘House’, insert ‘or, as the case may be, the committee’—(Ms Harriet Harman);

An Amendment ((a)) was proposed to the Question, to leave out lines 9 to 12.—(Mrs Theresa May.)

And the Question being put, That the Amendment be made;

The House divided.

Tellers for the Ayes, Mr Richard Benyon, James Duddridge: 165.

Tellers for the Noes, Richard Younger-Ross, Paul Rowen: 87.

So the Question was agreed to.

And the Main Question, as amended, being put:—It was agreed to.

Ordered, That the Amendments to the Standing Orders and new Orders, agreed to by this House on 25th October 2007, relating to the recommendations of the Select Committee on Modernisation of the House of Commons in its First Report of Session 2006–07, Revitalising the Chamber: the role of the back bench Member (House of Commons Paper No. 337 of Session 2006–07) and the Government response thereto (Cm. 7231) shall have permanent effect with the following Amendments—

In Standing Order No. 24B (Amendments to motions to consider specified matters)—

(a) in line 1, after ‘Speaker’, insert ‘or the Chairman’; and

(b) in line 2, after ‘House’, insert ‘or, as the case may be, the committee’.

14Speaker’s Conference,—Ordered, That—

Page 686      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

(1) There shall be a committee to be known as the Speaker’s Conference which shall consist of the Speaker, who shall be chairman, and up to 17 other Members appointed by the Speaker one of whom shall be vice-chairman;

(2) The Conference shall consider and make recommendations for rectifying the disparity between the representation of women, ethnic minorities and disabled people in the House of Commons and their representation in the UK population at large; and may agree to consider other associated matters;

(3) Notwithstanding any Standing Order of this House, the Conference shall conduct its proceedings in such manner, and have such of those powers which the House may delegate to select committees, as the Speaker shall determine;

(4) The Conference shall have power to report from time to time;

(5) The quorum of the Conference shall be five;

(6) This order shall have effect until the end of the current Parliament.—(Ms Harriet Harman.)

15House of Commons Members’ Fund,—Resolved, That, pursuant to section 4(4) of the House of Commons Members’ Fund Act 1948 and section 1(4) of the House of Commons Members’ Fund Act 1957, in the year commencing 1st October 2008 there be appropriated for the purposes of section 4 of the House of Commons Members’ Fund Act 1948:

(1) The whole of the sums deducted or set aside in that year under section 1(3) of the House of Commons Members’ Fund Act 1939 from the salaries of Members of the House of Commons; and

(2) The whole of the Treasury contribution to the Fund.—(Mr Peter Lilley.)

16International Criminal Court,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft International Criminal Court (Remand Time) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 6th October, be approved—(Ian Lucas):—It was agreed to.

17Housing,—A Motion was made, and the Question being put forthwith, pursuant to Standing Order No. 118 (Delegated Legislation Committees), That the draft Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 15th October, be approved—(Ian Lucas):—It was agreed to.

18Healthcare 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 Medical Profession (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2008, which was laid before this House on 16th October, be approved—(Ian Lucas):—It was agreed to.

19Adjournment.

Subject: Licence fees levied by the Performing Right Society (Alison Seabeck).

Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Ian Lucas.)

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:

Paper subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1Children and Young Persons,—Draft Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (Prescribed Criteria and Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Ed Balls].

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

2Family Provision,—Draft Family Provision (Intestate Succession) Order 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Jack Straw].

3Legal Services Commission,—Criminal Defence Service (Funding) (Amendment No. 2) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2930), dated 11th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Jack Straw].

Page 687      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

Other Papers:

4Government Resources and Accounts,—Report and Accounts of Service Children’s Education for 2007–08, with the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General thereon [by Act]; to be printed [No. 909] [Mr Secretary Hutton].

5National Audit,—Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General on the Independent Police Complaints Commission [by Act]; to be printed [No. 1035] [Clerk of the House].

6South Atlantic Territories,—Falkland Islands Constitution Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2846), dated 5th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary David Miliband].

7Treaty Series (No. 14, 2008),—Second Supplementary List of Ratifications, Accessions, Withdrawals, etc., for 2008 [by Command] [Cm. 7496] [Secretary David Miliband].

APPENDIX II

General Committees

1Draft Local Loans (Increase of Limit) Order 2008:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the First Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr David Taylor Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Ms Celia Barlow, Mr Bob Blizzard, Mr Jeremy Browne, Dr Vincent Cable, Mr Douglas Carswell, Mr Jim Devine, Mr David Gauke, Mr David Hamilton, Mr Doug Henderson, Anne Main, Mr Alan Meale, Mr Brooks Newmark, Ian Pearson, Mr James Plaskitt, Mr Richard Shepherd and Paddy Tipping.

2Draft European Communities (Definition of Treaties) (2006 International Tropical Timber Agreement) Order 2008:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Second Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr David Amess Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Ian Austin, Mr Simon Burns, Mr William Cash, Mr Michael Fallon, Mr Douglas Hogg, Mrs Sia(r)n C. James, Dr Stephen Ladyman, Mr Ian McCartney, Mr Michael Mates, Mr Alan Milburn, Mr Michael Moore, Margaret Moran, Martin Salter, Mr Andrew Smith, Mr Gareth Thomas and Stephen Williams.

3Draft Civil Contingencies Act 2004 (Amendment of List of Responders) Order 2008:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Third Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mr Martin Caton Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Mr Ben Bradshaw, Ms Karen Buck, Mr Charles Clarke, Rosie Cooper, Mr David Crausby, Mrs Ann Cryer, Mr Stephen Dorrell, Ms Diana R. Johnson, Norman Lamb, Mr Bob Laxton, Greg Mulholland, Mike Penning, Mr John Redwood, Mr Gary Streeter, Derek Twigg and Jeremy Wright.

4Draft International Organization for Migration (Immunities and Privileges) Order 2008:

(1) The Speaker has allocated the draft Order to the Fourth Delegated Legislation Committee and has appointed Mrs Janet Dean Chairman; and

(2) the Committee of Selection has nominated sixteen Members to serve on the Committee: Colin Burgon, Alistair Burt, Mr Edward Davey, Michael Jabez Foster (Hastings and Rye), Mr Neil Gerrard, Patrick Hall, Mr Greg Hands, Mr David Lidington, Mr Andrew Love, Gillian Merron, Mr Mark Oaten, Gwyn Prosser, Hon Nicholas Soames, Sir John Stanley, Mark Tami and Mr Neil Turner.

5Draft Youth Justice Board for England and Wales (Amendment) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged John Smith from the Fifth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Mrs Anne McGuire.

6Draft National Assembly for Wales (Legislative Competence) (Social Welfare and Other Fields) Order 2008,—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Dai Havard from the Sixth Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the draft Order) and nominated in substitution Nia Griffith.

Page 688      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

7Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2424),—The Committee of Selection has discharged Mr Peter Bone, Mr Brian H. Donohoe and Mrs Anne McGuire from the Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee (nominated in respect of the Regulations) and nominated in substitution Mrs Linda Gilroy, Andrew Gwynne and Daniel Kawczynski.

Grand Committees

8The Speaker has appointed Mr Peter Atkinson Chairman of the Northern Ireland Grand Committee in respect of its meeting on 18th November.

European Committees

9European Union Documents No. 12149/08 and Addenda 1 and 2, No. 13713/08 and Addenda 1 and 2 and No. 14317/08, relating to Financial services have been referred to European Committee B.

10European Union Document No. 16488/07 and Addenda 1 and 2, relating to Procurement in the fields of defence and security has been referred to European Committee B.

APPENDIX III

Reports from Select Committees

1Children, Schools and Families,—Diversity of school provision: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Children, Schools and Families Committee; to be printed [No. 311-v] [Mr Barry Sheerman].

2Defence,—Ministry of Defence Annual Report and Accounts 2007–08: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Defence Committee; to be printed [No. 1168-ii] [Mr James Arbuthnot].

3Environment, Food and Rural Affairs,—(1) Waste Strategy for England 2007: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Sub-Committee of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 1100-ii]; and

(2) Badgers and cattle TB: Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published

[Mr Michael Jack].

4European Scrutiny,—(1) Thirty-ninth Report from the European Scrutiny Committee; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report [No. 16-xxxv];

(2) Minutes of the Public Deliberations of the Committee; to be printed [No. 361-xxiv]; and

(3) Ministerial Correspondence: Memoranda laid before the Committee; to be published

[Michael Connarty].

5Foreign Affairs,—Global Security: Japan and Korea: Tenth Report from the Foreign Affairs Committee, with Memoranda and an Annex; to be printed, with the Minutes of Proceedings of the Committee relating to the Report, and Memoranda reported and ordered to be published on 26th March, 9th July and 15th October [No. 449] [Mike Gapes].

6Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills,—Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council: recent developments and introductory hearing: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Innovation, Universities, Science and Skills Committee; to be printed [No. 1170-i] [Mr Phil Willis].

7International Development,—The Annual Autumn Meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund: Minutes of Evidence taken before the International Development Committee, with Memoranda; to be printed [No. 1195] [Malcolm Bruce].

8Public Accounts,—Reducing Alcohol Harm: health services in England for alcohol misuse: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Committee of Public Accounts; to be printed [No. 1197-i] [Mr Edward Leigh].

Page 689      Wednesday 12th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

9Statutory Instruments,—(1) Thirty-first Report from the Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments, with Memoranda; to be printed [No. 38-xxxi]; and

(2) Fifth Report from the Select Committee on Statutory Instruments, with Memoranda; to be printed [No. 39-v]

[David Maclean].

10Transport,—The enforcement activities of the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA): Minutes of Evidence taken before the Transport Committee; to be printed [No. 1196-i] [Mrs Louise Ellman].


[No. 157; WH, No. 104]

Wednesday 12th November 2008.

The House sitting in Westminster Hall

The sitting began at half-past Nine o’clock.

 Adjournment.

Subjects:

Housing supply in the current economic situation (Mr Clive Betts).

Children of prisoners (Kerry McCarthy).

Proposals for a British Day (Andrew Rosindell).

Developments in financial markets (Mr Andrew Pelling).

Local government reform in Gloucestershire (Mr David Drew).

Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Barbara Keeley.)

And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till to-morrow.

[Adjourned at 6.29 p.m.


[No. 158.]

Thursday 13th November 2008.

The House met at half-past Ten o’clock.

PRAYERS.

1London 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 20th November.

2Leeds 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 20th November.

3Nottingham 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 20th November.

4Reading 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 20th November.

5Banking Bill,—Mr Jim Hood reported a Memorandum from the Banking Bill Committee.

Memorandum to lie upon the Table and to be published.

6Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee,—John Bercow reported from the Seventh Delegated Legislation Committee the Social Security (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2424).

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

Page 690      Thursday 13th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

7Message from the Lords,—A Message was brought from the Lords as follows:

The Lords agree, without Amendment, to the Amendments made by this House to the Children and Young Persons Bill [Lords].

The Lords agree, without Amendment, to the Amendments made by this House to the Employment Bill [Lords].

8Combating obesity (Topical Debate),—Resolved, That this House has considered the matter of combating obesity.—(Dawn Primarolo.)

9Royal Assent,—The Deputy Speaker notified the House, in accordance with the Royal Assent Act 1967, That Her Majesty had signified her Royal Assent to the following Acts, agreed upon by both Houses:

Planning and Energy Act 2008

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008

Children and Young Persons Act 2008

Employment Act 2008.

10International aid transparency,—A Motion was made, and the Question being proposed, That this House has considered the matter of international aid transparency—(Mr Secretary Alexander);

And it being Six o’clock, the Motion lapsed without Question put.

11Public Petition,—A Public Petition from residents of Cuddington and Sandiway, and others relating to planning and development (Cheshire) was presented and read.

12Adjournment.

Subject: Thames Water’s proposals for a reservoir in Oxfordshire (Mr Edward Vaizey).

Resolved, That this House do now adjourn.—(Ms Dawn Butler.)

And accordingly, the House, having continued to sit till twenty-five minutes past Six o’clock, adjourned till Monday 17th November.

[Adjourned at 6.25 p.m.


APPENDIX I

Papers presented or laid upon the Table:

Papers subject to Affirmative Resolution:

1Capital Gains Tax,—(1) Draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (France) Order 2008;

(2) draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Isle of Man) Order 2008; and

(3) draft Double Taxation Relief and International Tax Enforcement (Taxes on Income and Capital) (Netherlands) Order 2008

[by Act], with Explanatory Memoranda thereon [by Command] [Stephen Timms].

2Housing,—Draft Local Authorities (England) (Charges for Property Searches) Regulations 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Hazel Blears].

Papers subject to Negative Resolution:

3Housing,—Local Authorities (England) (Charges for Property Searches) (Disapplication) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2909), dated 10th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum and Impact Assessment [by Command] [Secretary Hazel Blears].

4Supreme Court,—High Court and County Courts Jurisdiction (Amendment) Order 2008 (S.I., 2008, No. 2934), dated 11th November 2008 [by Act], with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Secretary Jack Straw].

Page 691      Thursday 13th November 2008       2007-08      Volume 264      Back to top

Other Papers:

5Vietnam (No 1, 2008),—Treaty, done at Hanoi on 12th September 2008, between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, with an Explanatory Memorandum [by Command] [Cm. 7498] [Secretary David Miliband].

6Work and Pensions,—Paper entitled, The Buncefield Investigation: the Government and Competent Authority’s response [by Command] [Cm. 7491] [Secretary James Purnell].

APPENDIX II

Reports from Select Committees

1Health,—(1) Health Inequalities: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Health Committee; to be printed [No. 422-x]; and

(2) Public Expenditure on Health and Personal Social Services 2008: Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be printed [No. 1190]

[Mr Kevin Barron].

2Home Affairs,—The work of the Home Office: Minutes of Evidence taken before the Home Affairs Committee; to be printed [No. 1191] [Keith Vaz].

3Public Administration,—Equitable Life:

(1) Minutes of Evidence taken before the Select Committee on Public Administration; to be printed [No. 1143-iii]; and

(2) Memorandum laid before the Committee; to be published

[Dr Tony Wright].


[No. 158; WH, No. 105]

Thursday 13th November 2008.

The House sitting in Westminster Hall

The sitting began at half-past Two o’clock.

 Adjournment.

Subject: Harmful content on the Internet and in video games, Tenth Report from the Culture, Media and Sport Committee and the Government’s response thereto.

Resolved, That the sitting be now adjourned.—(Barbara Follett.)

And accordingly the sitting was adjourned till Tuesday 18th November.

[Adjourned at 5.29 p.m.



Previous Chronological Index Next
  Part I Alphabetical Index
Part II Alphabetical Index
 

 
House of Commons home page Houses of Parliament home page House of Lords home page search page enquiries index

© Parliamentary copyright 2010
Prepared 16 September 2010