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Proceeding contribution from Lord Wallace of Tankerness (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Lords on Tuesday, 1 March 2011. It occurred during Debate on bill on Fixed-term Parliaments Bill.


Fixed-term Parliaments Bill

That is not the position, because the Bill provides for a 14-day period following a vote of no confidence in which it could be seen whether another Government could be formed. That is not the same thing as going to the Palace the morning after a vote of confidence on a majority of one. If manipulation is possible under this Bill—unless the fixed terms are rigid, it is impossible to avoid—the opportunity for manipulation under a Dissolution on a simple majority of one is even greater. However, the important point is identified by the Constitution Committee: it would be seen as an abuse. That would be a matter for political debate and political comment and the electorate are the ultimate arbiters.


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
725 c1047 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
Subjects
Devolved matters Legislatures General elections Fixed-term parliaments Dissolution Northern Ireland Parliament Scotland Wales Censure motions
Legislation
Fixed-term Parliaments Bill 2010-12
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk