Topic 1 - Stages of a Bill Flashcards
How does an Act begin life?
As a Bill (this can be in either the House of Lords or Commons)
Where is it more common for a Bill to begin life from?
The House of Commons
The Bill has it’s first reading - what does this involve?
Its title is presented, it is issued with a number, and the Stationary Office prints it for the House
What happens at the second reading?
A debate is possible and the Opposition may defeat the Bill by tabling a ‘reasoned amendment’
What does a reasoned amendment state?
That while the Bill may have some merit, there are significant concerns or reasons why it should not proceed in its current form
What happens after the second reading?
The Bill proceeds to a Standing Committee which debates and considers the Bill clause by clause
How is the Committee Stage different in the Lords?
It is usually held by a Whole House Committee as opposed to a Standing Committee e.g the Finance Bill is always a Whole House Committee
What does the Report Stage do?
Decide on the issues raised at the Committee Stage and allows for those Members not part of the Committee to forward amendments and reflect on the Bill
Where is the Third Reading held?
In the House that introduced the Bill
What does the Third Reading stage involve?
A quick debate on any changes made at the Committee and Report stages
When is a Bill able to be sent for Royal Assent?
When it has passed each of these Stages and has agreement from both Houses
What is Royal Assent regarded as nowadays
A formality, as the last refusal was in 1707
