---

Racial and Religious Hatred Bill

On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. In the light of the House’s decisions this evening, I think it appropriate to inform the House—if that is acceptable to you—of how we see the position at the moment. [Interruption.] The Bill will now proceed to Royal Assent as it stands. That means that the debate between the House of Commons and the House of Lords will be about threatening behaviour, but will not include insulting and abusive behaviour; it will concern intent only, not recklessness; and it will deal with a wide-ranging freedom of expression clause. Despite this evening’s defeat for the Government, I am delighted that we are introducing legislation to deal with the issues that we must address. There have been substantial arguments in both the House of Commons and the other place—[Interruption.] Is it in order, Mr. Deputy Speaker, to say clearly that the Government accept the House’s decision this evening, that we are delighted that the Bill is proceeding to its Royal Assent, and that we are delighted to have a Bill that deals with incitement to religious hatred? We regret that the agreements and discussions in the other place did not happen, but I hope, Mr. Deputy Speaker, that you will accept our determination to carry the Bill through.