Council of the European Union: UK Presidency Debate
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Baroness Evans of Bowes Park
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Council of the European Union: UK Presidency
Baroness Evans of Bowes Park Excerpts(8 years, 3 months ago)
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Baroness Falkner of Margravine
I think we need the Leader of the House to give us an idea of who should be next.
The Lord Privy Seal (Baroness Evans of Bowes Park) (Con)
My Lords, it is the turn of the Liberal Democrats.
Baroness Falkner of Margravine
While the noble Lord, Lord Bridges, is taking his time, does he accept that it would be extremely difficult for the United Kingdom to conduct a presidency if, under Article 50, it is banned from taking part in certain meetings that will inevitably have to happen during the presidency? Does he also accept that the parliamentary authorities will need to make arrangements—catering, venues and functions, among many others—if we are to carry out that presidency? Will the Government commit to refunding the House if they make a very late decision and contracts have to be cancelled?