Week 2 - Stages of a Bill Flashcards
How does an Act begin life?
As a bill
Where are the two places a bill can begin life in?
House of Lords
House of Commons
Where is it more common for a bill to begin life?
House of Commons (MPs and civil servants)
What happens at the Bill’s first reading?
Its title is presented, it is issued 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 happens after the second reading?
The Bill proceeds to a Standing Committee which debates and considers the Bill clause by clause
In the House of Lords, what do they usually have instead of a Standing Committee?
Their Committee stage is usually held by a Whole House Committee
What is a Bill that always requires a Whole House Committee?
The Finance Bill
What happens after the Committee Stage?
The Report Stage
What happens during the Report Stage?
The Report Stage will 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 (usually the House of Commons)
What happens during the Third Reading?
A quick debate on any changes made at the Committee and Report stages
What happens if the Bill passes all three readings with agreement from both Houses?
It is sent for Royal Assent
What is Royal Assent regarded as nowadays and why?
It is regarded as a formality, as the last refusal for Royal Assent was in 1707
