Proceeding contribution from Lord Falconer of Thoroton (Labour) in the House of Lords on Wednesday, 16 February 2011. It occurred during Debate on bill on Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill.
Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill
I am not taking interventions. Thirteen per cent of the electorate could pass a change in our voting system that would not be passed in the other place. Is that an appropriate basis on which to make a fundamental change? Is there a country in Europe or a developed democracy that would allow its constitution to be changed on that basis? Therefore, this is an important matter. We do not know what the Commons said, although I am sure that we have a very accurate report from the noble Lord, Lord Rooker. Should the Commons think again or should we rely on that eight-day period as being sufficient? In my respectful submission to this House, if we are serious guardians of the constitution, then eight days is not enough. A debate that we cannot read is not enough, and the issue is sufficiently important for us to ask the Commons respectfully to think again. Therefore, I shall support my noble friend Lord Rooker, whose judgment throughout this whole debate has proved impeccable.
Secondary information
- Type
- Proceeding contribution
- Reference
- 725 c784
- Session
- 2010-12
- Chamber / Committee
- House of Lords chamber
- Subjects
- Boundary commissions Constituency size Constituencies Alternative vote Isle of Wight Referendums Voting behaviour
- Legislation
- Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill 2010-12
- Link
- View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk
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- 2023-12-15 14:51:24 +0000
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