Leader of the House: Cabinet Membership

Lord Dholakia Excerpts

Wednesday 16th July 2014 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

I am grateful to the noble Lord. As I have already said, I understand why noble Lords are raising this issue. However, if I were concerned that the status I have been given as Leader were in any way diluted and would affect the practical way in which I shall conduct myself in fulfilling my responsibilities, I would clearly question it. I do not believe that it does.

[Lord Dholakia (LD)]

My Lords—

[Baroness Scotland of Asthal (Lab)]

My Lords—

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

I believe that we have not heard from the Lib Dem Benches.

[Lord Dholakia]

My Lords, does my noble friend agree that the important aspect of this appointment is that the status of a full member of the Cabinet enjoyed by the former Leader, the noble Lord, Lord Hill of Oareford, is in no way diminished by the present appointment? Would she give a categorical assurance that this will be so?

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

I say to my noble friend that, in all practical ways, I will contribute to Cabinet in exactly the same way as my predecessor. That is what the Prime Minister asked me to do.