Civil Jurisdiction and Judgments (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019

Lord Faulkner of Worcester Excerpts

Tuesday 29th January 2019 Grand Committee

Over and above that, the noble Lord, Lord Adonis, alluded to the issue of consultation. Consultation was held with a whole series of exit groups, but one has to see the consultation or discussions in the context of what I have just explained. We are not talking about the comparison between no EU exit and EU exit. That is not a relevant comparator for our present purposes or for the purposes of this instrument for the reasons I have sought to explain. The comparator, as shown in the impact assessment, is between leaving without changing the statute book and leaving with the necessary and relevant changes to the statute book. That is where we engaged with the Law Society, the Bar, the Family Law Group, Resolution and firms from the magic circle in order that we could be clear about which direction we had to take. There is only one direction to take. In any event, we have to put the statute book into proper order if we exit with no deal. We cannot simply retain the Brussels Ia regime when we are not a party to it. It just does not make sense. To that extent, I hope I have been able to address the points raised by noble Lords. It is in these circumstances that I commend the draft instrument to the Committee.

[The Deputy Chairman of Committees (Lord Faulkner of Worcester) (Lab)]

My Lords, it might be helpful if I remind the Grand Committee that this afternoon we are merely considering the regulations, not approving them. Whatever the Grand Committee decides, the regulations will need to be approved in the Chamber, and Members will have the opportunity to debate and vote on it there if they so wish.

Motion negatived.