For extended comment or for more information about the alliance, please contact the alliance's coordinator, Jane Thomas, at jane.thomas@repealbill.org or 07957 240826.
The announcement that Government is expecting just one bruising 12-hour session to consider all the amendments of the EU Withdrawal Bill has been met with shock and disbelief.
A leaked letter from the Government's Chief Whip, Julian Smith MP, confirmed that the EU (Withdrawal) Bill will be making its way back to the Commons on Tuesday, June 12th. MPs have been told to expect a long day [1].
Jane Thomas, Co-ordinator of the Repeal Bill Alliance [3] said:
“Given that this Parliament has been marked by a tiny legislative programme, its pretty shameful that when confronted with the most complex and detailed piece of legislation for over 40 years, the Government allows so little time for meaningful debate”.
“Indeed most of the day will be spent in and out of the lobby, not debating or undertaking scrutiny. The Government is leaving Parliament in the dark by not allowing enough time for scrutiny of not only technical, legislative details but also amendments to the bill that limit Henry VIII powers and protect fundamental rights [2]”
ENDS
Notes to editors
[1] “Brexit bill: Date set for crunch votes in the Commons” https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-44360020
[2] European Union (Withdrawal Bill [as amended in Report] (HL Bill 102):
Clause 9, p. 7
Clause 23, p. 24
Clause 6 (6), p.6
Schedule 7, p. 64
https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/lbill/2017-2019/0102/EU-Withdrawal-Bill-AOR-Tracked-Changes.pdf
[3] The Repeal Bill Alliance, formed last year, comprises over 80 organisations ranging from large UK-wide organisations, those in the devolved nations and regions, and smaller, bespoke advocacy and campaign groups. It is calling on parliamentarians to amend the EU Withdrawal Bill to ensure clear limits and safeguards on the powers given to UK ministers, along with open and accountable law making in the transition process; and to maintain a high standards UK.
For more information visit the Alliance’s website: https://repealbill.org/