House of Lords: Behaviour in the Chamber Debate
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Lord Crickhowell
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House of Lords: Behaviour in the Chamber
Lord Crickhowell Excerpts(12 years ago)
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Lord Strathclyde
Yes, my Lords, and I think that the feeling should be reciprocated in both Houses.
Lord Crickhowell
My Lords, will the Front Bench perhaps give a lead on one matter and stop the growing practice of the Whips trying to intervene and stop important speeches during Second Reading debates—a practice that is in breach of the rules and conventions of this House?
Lord Strathclyde
No, my Lords, I completely disagree with my noble friend, but I am very glad he raised that point. The Whips on all sides of the House have a responsibility to draw attention to when a rule, as laid down in the Companion, is being broken and to offer guidance to the House. That is what they do, and they should continue to do it.