Coronavirus Act 2020 (Review of Temporary Provisions)

Debate between Lord Brady of Altrincham and Chris Bryant

Wednesday 30th September 2020 Commons Chamber

[Sir Graham Brady]

I absolutely agree. Those were two wonderful interventions from former Chief Whips; I wonder whether there are any more in the House. That is precisely the point: it is our belief that this House can work with the Government, and that our collective knowledge and the difficult questions we will ask will improve the quality of the Government’s actions and governance.

[Chris Bryant]

Can the hon. Gentleman tell us what this new procedure is?

[Sir Graham Brady]

The hon. Gentleman is an expert on procedure, and he will soon get to grips with it. It is the made affirmative procedure, which entails the setting of a commencement date in the future for measures, which will allow for a debate and vote to take place in advance of commencement. The House will therefore have that crucial ability to refuse consent.

[Chris Bryant]

But the Government decide.

[Sir Graham Brady]

These things will be brought forward. We have had the assurance, and we will hold the Government to it. The hon. Gentleman will see it very soon.

I will close by thanking those Members across the House who, by supporting my amendment publicly or privately, have helped to achieve what I believe will be an important step forward for all of us.