Nationality and Borders Bill Debate

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Department: Home Office
Baroness Laing of Elderslie Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker
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I ask the Serjeant at Arms to investigate, once again, the delay in the Lobbies. This is an anti-democratic practice. It may not be obvious to the House, or to those who observe our proceedings, that the effect of delaying these Divisions is to deprive the Home Secretary and the shadow Home Secretary of the ability to speak on Third Reading of the Bill. That is unacceptable. It is right that this House should hear from the Home Secretary, the shadow Home Secretary, and others on Third Reading. The delaying tactics, if one can use that term, that appear to be being used are unacceptable and contrary to good democratic practice.

David Davis Portrait Mr David Davis (Haltemprice and Howden) (Con)
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On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker.

Baroness Laing of Elderslie Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker
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Is it about the Division?

Baroness Laing of Elderslie Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker
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Then I can accept the right hon. Gentleman’s point of order.

David Davis Portrait Mr Davis
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Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. In view of the anti-democratic nature of the obstruction, is it possible to name the people who are causing it?

Baroness Laing of Elderslie Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker
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The right hon. Gentleman asks a perfectly reasonable question. I am considering the answer. At present, I have no proof of the identity of those who are obstructing these Divisions. I will endeavour to obtain that information, and then I will consider what to do with it.