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Proceeding contribution from David Heath (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Commons on Thursday, 4 March 2010. It occurred during Debate on Chair (Terminology).

Chair (Terminology)

I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for that. If we agree to that new role for the Chairman of Ways and Means subsequent to today's votes, however, we will need to prepare for that, so that in the new Parliament we can deal with it as a first instance. I need not detain the House any longer. Some have described today as an historic day of reform—I am sorry, but I cannot bring myself to think that way. An Everest of reform is necessary if we are to bring this House and our politics generally up to speed—into the 21st century—and make it fit for purpose. Evolution is a slow process at the moment, and we still do not fit the ecological niche that we need to fit. If we were climbing Everest, we would simply be at base camp, but if the House cannot even get to base camp we will have failed the people who have elected us and want us to make this House fit for purpose.

Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
506 c1071 
Session
2009-10
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Committees Elections House of Commons Public appointments Parliamentary procedure Reform Terminology Select committees Backbenchers Standing orders Private members' time Deputy Speakers Order of business Select Committee on Reform of the House of Commons
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk