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Proceeding contribution from Lord Wigley (Plaid Cymru) in the House of Lords on Tuesday, 29 March 2011. It occurred during Committee of the Whole House (HL) and Debate on bill on Fixed-term Parliaments Bill.


Fixed-term Parliaments Bill

In the first place, I thank the Minister and the Government for moving on this, following the discussion that took place in another place and the misgivings expressed quite widely. It is very helpful that these changes are proposed. None the less, there is an issue with regard to the 30 days. There would be considerable complications if two elections took place within that time, not least for those who have to organise the elections. In the context of Wales and, I suspect, Scotland the elections would be on different boundaries, as well as the possibility of there being different electoral systems. I hope that the Government look again at the 30 days and see whether it could be elongated to two or three months. Can the decision be put in the hands of the National Assembly and not just the Secretary of State so that there is no question of any political tension arising out of this?


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
726 c1223 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
Subjects
Courts General elections Government Judgements Fixed-term parliaments Dissolution National Assembly for Wales Parliament Scotland Wales Scottish Parliament Speaker Resignations Censure motions
Legislation
Fixed-term Parliaments Bill 2010-12
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk