Parliamentary Law making Flashcards
What is a Green Paper?
A Green Paper is a consultative document issued by the governemnt to provoke discussion on propsed legislation. It invites comments from interested parties
What is a White Paper?
A white paper is a formal statement of government policy, outlining proposed legislation after consultation. It is more concrete than a Green Paper.
What is a Government Bill?
A bill introduced by a government minister.
What is a Private members’ Bill?
A bill introduces by an MP or Lord not in government.
What is a Public Bill?
A bill that affects the whole country.
What is a Private Bill?
A Bill that affects individuals or organisations.
What is a Hybrid Bill?
A Bill that affects the public but also specific groups.
What happens at the First Reading in the House of Commons
The Bill is briefly outlined for ceremonial reasons. No debate or vote at this stage.
What happens at the Second Reading in the House of Commons?
The general principles of the Billare debated and a vote is taken. This is the first opportunity for MP’s to discuss the Bill.
What is the Committee Stage?
A Public Bill Committee scrutinises the Bill clause by clause, making amendments where necessary.
What is the Report Stage?
The committee reports back to the House on amendments made. Further amendments can be proposed.
What is the Third Reading
Final debate on the whole Bill. Limited discussion - mainly focuses on what the Bill aims to do overall.
What is the House of Lords Stage?
The Billgoes through the same stages as in the the House of Commons. Then the Lords can suggest amendments to the Bill for the House of commons to Debate
What is Royal Assent?
The monarch formally approves the Bill, making it an Act of Parliament. It is now law. This is just a formality.
What is “Ping-Pong”?
When the Bill moves back and forth between the Commons and the Lords as they debate amendments.
The Commons can never lose this because of the Parliament Act 1911
What are some advantages of the Legislative Process?
Democratic - Made by elected representatives
Thorough Scrutiny - Several readings and stages.
Public involvement - Consultation via Green/White Papers
Expert Input - Committee stage allows for detailed examination.
What are some Disadvantages of the Legislative Process?
Slow - The process can take a long time
Complex - Language can be dificult to understand
Government dominance - Majority government can push laws through easily as they have the majority
Limited time - Private Members’ Bills often lack time for debate
