Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Heath and Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton

Thursday 22nd March 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mark Lancaster (Milton Keynes North) (Con)]

1. What plans he has for consultation with hon. Members on the Government’s proposal for a draft Bill on parliamentary privilege.

[The Parliamentary Secretary, Office of the Leader of the House of Commons (Mr David Heath)]

It is our intention to publish a Green Paper containing draft measures on parliamentary privilege before the end of the Session.

[Mark Lancaster]

Which particular aspect of the current system of privilege does the Minister feel is in most need of reform and why?

Business of the House

Debate between David Heath and Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton

Thursday 1st July 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr Heath]

Well, I shall also assume that the question has something to do with parliamentary business—[Hon. Members: “Oh!”] This is about business for the next two weeks; sometimes colleagues need to be reminded of that.

I do not think that I can guarantee that there will be a statement or a debate on the matter. However, I will mention the hon. Lady’s concerns to my hon. Friend the Minister of State and see whether more information can be obtained.

[Mark Lancaster (Milton Keynes North) (Con)]

May we have a debate on supporting British citizens overseas? The Deputy Leader of the House might recall that last week I raised the case of my constituent, Ken Spooner, whose children have been abducted to Zambia. Unfortunately, the case has taken a turn for the worse and Mr Spooner is now in a Zambian jail, having not been charged. Can we possibly ensure that he gets the support from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office that he was promised?

[Mr Heath]

Obviously, it is always a matter of great concern to hon. Members when their constituents find themselves in difficulties overseas. It is part of the consular duties of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to provide such support as may be provided in country. I shall certainly make sure that these concerns are passed on to members of the ministerial team in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.