Oral Answers to Questions

Karen Lumley Excerpts

Wednesday 21st November 2012 Commons Chamber

[Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con)]

2. What role the Electoral Commission will play in the referendum on Scottish independence.

[Karen Lumley (Redditch) (Con)]

11. What role the Electoral Commission will play in the referendum on Scottish independence.

--- Later in debate ---

[Michael Moore]

My hon. Friend is right to highlight the expertise and experience of the Electoral Commission, which is indeed a highly respected institution. I do not think that it would be in the interests of the Scottish Government or any nationalists to pit themselves against the commission’s advice.

[Karen Lumley]

Does my right hon. Friend share the concern that the referendum question submitted to the Electoral Commission by the Scottish Government is weighted in favour of a positive outcome?

[Michael Moore]

I understand the concern that people feel about the formulation presented by the Scottish Government, but I think that, given its great experience, great expertise and trusted status, the Electoral Commission is in the right position to carry out the right procedures. I am ready to stand by its advice, and I hope that the Scottish Government are too.