Business of the House

Debate between Lord Hamilton of Epsom and Lord Mackay of Clashfern

Thursday 4th April 2019 Lords Chamber

[Lord Mackay of Clashfern]

I understand that. To ask to amend the agreement is one thing, but to tell them the specific alteration is another. I am very familiar with that particular Motion, which passed. The point that I am trying to make is that if you want to change a document, you should propose the amendment you have in mind. The amendment tabled—very wisely, if we wanted to get some agreement—did not do that. All it said was that we must get alternative arrangements. What alternative arrangements are likely to be suitable? This point seems very important.

[Lord Hamilton of Epsom (Con)]

Has the EU not made it absolutely clear that it is impossible to reopen the agreement?

[Lord Mackay of Clashfern]

That is what it says, but why should we accept that? It is supposed to be a negotiation. If we wanted an alternative arrangement, I should have thought that the position should be us saying what that alternative is. I have heard, “We don’t know what the UK wants”, again and again. A specific amendment to the agreement might well be subject to further consideration.