Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Evan Harris (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Wednesday, 25 November 2009 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Engagements

Question: In March, when the Lord Chancellor talked out my private Member's Bill to end the discrimination against Catholics in royal marriages and against women in the line of succession, he said that the Government recognised that this discrimination should end. Can the Prime Minister confirm that he is, as the Lord Chancellor said, ready to consult the relevant Commonwealth Heads of Government this week and that he is confident that we will then be able to sort this out, so that the all-party—

Answer: The Act of Settlement is outdated, and I think that most people recognise the need for change. Change can be brought about only by not just the United Kingdom, but all realms where Her Majesty is Queen making a decision to change. That is why it is important to discuss this with all members of the Commonwealth, including countries such as Australia and Canada. That is the process that will be undertaken in due course.

Secondary information