"This is an important issue. Let me say what I think the purpose of this is, so that it can be properly debated. The norm for the panel—the noble Lord, Lord Harper, is right—is to sit in public, but it is such a thing that it should be determined by …..." Lord Falconer of Thoroton - View Speech
"I will certainly reflect on that, and may I express my gratitude to the noble Baroness, Lady Berridge, for facilitating the meeting with Professor Ruck Keene? It was incredibly helpful, and I genuinely appreciate it. Yes, I will reflect on what the noble Baroness said. I suspect there will be …..." Lord Falconer of Thoroton - View Speech
"The nature of the appointment is that it is an appointment by the Prime Minister. He is politically accountable for the appointment. The assisted dying commissioner, like so many other appointments made by a Minister, has legal duties, but, if you are looking for political accountability, it is the person …..." Lord Falconer of Thoroton - View Speech
"I think we will have to disagree on that. It is the normal way for that to be dealt with in drafting, so I am content with it. I am sorry to disagree with the noble Lord, but that is my view.
"I was pretty clear in my remarks that I favoured the panel process. When I say that it has been laid to rest, I accept that the House may take a different view from me, which I would completely respect. To deal with that, obviously there would be a vote …..." Lord Falconer of Thoroton - View Speech