Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ann McKechin and Tom Brake

Thursday 17th January 2013 Commons Chamber

[Ann McKechin (Glasgow North) (Lab)]

4. Whether he plans to give evidence to the Procedure Committee inquiry on programming.

[The Deputy Leader of the House of Commons (Tom Brake)]

We have received confirmation of the Procedure Committee’s decision to undertake an inquiry into programming together with a request to set out the Government’s views. We will submit our views shortly.

[Ann McKechin]

Given how light the Government’s legislative programme is, does the right hon. Gentleman think that now is the time to consider whether we can debate private Members’ Bills not only on Fridays but on other days of the week, rather than having the countless pointless debates that we currently have to endure?

[Tom Brake]

I am surprised that the hon. Lady considers that the Government have a light programme; that is certainly not the view on the Government Benches. The House has expressed a view on private Members’ Bills. It has thought it appropriate to leave them where they are.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Ann McKechin and Tom Brake

Tuesday 4th September 2012 Commons Chamber

[Ann McKechin (Glasgow North) (Lab)]

1. What steps he is taking to promote compliance with international law in the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

[Tom Brake (Carshalton and Wallington) (LD)]

7. What assessment he has made of the prospects for a two-state solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine.

[The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr William Hague)]

Progress in the middle east peace process is needed urgently. We have urged both sides to focus on dialogue, to avoid steps that could undermine the prospects for peace and to work towards the resumption of direct negotiations. We are in regular contact with the Israeli authorities on legal issues relating to the conflict, and we urge Israel to comply with its legal obligations, including those arising under international humanitarian law.