Human Rights Act 1998

Lord Mackay of Clashfern Excerpts

Wednesday 12th October 2011 Lords Chamber

[Lord McNally]

I think that those are rather strong words. I have said before that in a democracy where there is a separation of powers there can be a healthy relationship between parliamentarians and the judiciary, whereby parliamentarians can sometimes express concerns about how the judiciary has interpreted some of Parliament’s Acts and, likewise, the judiciary may occasionally pass an unkindly word about the behaviour of parliamentarians. As long as that is kept on a basis of mutual respect and due courtesy, it is a healthy way for a democracy to go.

[Lord Mackay of Clashfern]

Does my noble friend agree that it would be wise for all of us to be careful how we speak?

[Lord McNally]

My Lords, that is a piece of advice that I hope echoes and re-echoes down the Corridor.