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Parliamentary Standards Bill

I am grateful to the shadow Leader of the House for explaining his view, but I do not agree with him: there is a difference between registering and declaring an interest. Just because we have access to Google in our offices does not mean that when we are attending a debate we should not hear whether a Member has a significant interest to declare. I wish to draw the attention of Members to the key word in our amendment, because there has to be reasonableness, as people can occasionally forget to mention things. The key word in the Scottish National party amendment is "intentionally". That provides a safeguard that should assuage any concerns that any Members of any parties might have. I do not need to speak to this issue at great length. The House has already passed it as a criminal sanction to apply in legislatures elsewhere in the United Kingdom. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. We should include it as a criminal sanction in this Bill. I shall wish to press the amendment to a Division at the appropriate stage, and I appeal for the support of Members in all parts of the House.