---

Fixed-term Parliaments Bill

I thought that I would speak briefly on the amendment. I can see the argument that it drives a coach and horses through the intention of having fixed-term Parliaments and I can see that it may attract some support in the House for that reason. I have problems with how the amendment is drafted, as it says: "““Parliament may otherwise be dissolved””." Who determines that? It may otherwise be dissolved if Her Majesty appoints another Prime Minister. Is it the incoming Prime Minister who determines that there should be a dissolution? It also states that, "““the Prime Minister considers it appropriate to seek the endorsement of electors following a change in government policy””." One can see how any Prime Minister could have a fairly minor change of policy and decide, ““I’d rather like to have a general election””, and it could be used as an excuse presumably for triggering the election. There is no requirement here; it has to be a major change in public policy. There are obvious drafting problems because I am completely unclear as to who would be responsible for triggering a Dissolution. That is my problem with it, but some may find that quite attractive since, in effect, it would undo the whole Bill.