While I disagree with the hon. Lady about whether that is likely to become important in the next few months, the Bill does not take account of what Parliament can do if there were a vote of no confidence in a Government, which is a big weakness. The Bill is too inflexible for Parliament to respond in such a situation.
Restructuring the recall of the House of Commons is another case in point. Currently, the House may be recalled by the Speaker during any period of Adjournment under Standing Order No. 13 at the request of the Government. There is no power for MPs, or even a majority of MPs, to force a recall. In the past, hon. Members have argued through early-day motions that there should be the opportunity for Members to ask the Speaker to recall Parliament. The current arrangement allows Parliament to be recalled. Indeed, in the past few years—
Fixed Term Parliaments Bill
Proceeding contribution from
Bridget Prentice
(Labour)
in the House of Commons on Friday, 16 May 2008.
It occurred during Debate on bills on Fixed Term Parliaments Bill.
About this proceeding contribution
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475 c1718 Session
2007-08Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamberSubjects
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