Written question asked by Lord Lester of Herne Hill (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Malloch-Brown (Labour) on Tuesday, 12 May 2009.

Treaties: Parliamentary Scrutiny

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government further to the comments by Lord McKenzie of Luton on 28 April (Official Report, House of Lords, GC 41), whether they will support the introduction of procedures for enhanced parliamentary scrutiny of treaties without the need for legislation; and, if not, what are their reasons.

Answer: As the noble Lord, Lord McKenzie of Luton, stated on 28 April 2009, the Constitutional Renewal Bill is scheduled for introduction before the Summer Recess. The Bill will include provisions to place the present arrangements for parliamentary scrutiny of treaties on a statutory footing. The development and operation of mechanisms outside the proposed legislation to enhance Parliament's ability to scrutinise treaties is ultimately a matter for Parliament itself. The Government will endeavour to respond positively to whichever additional methods Parliament wishes to pursue.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 3265; 710 c198WA
Session: 2008-09
Related items: European Communities (Definition of Treaties) (United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities) Order 2009
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
Proceeding contributions
House of Lords
Subjects: Parliamentary scrutiny Treaties
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk