Skip to main content

Proceeding contribution from Lord Deben (Conservative) in the House of Lords on Monday, 16 May 2011. It occurred during Debate on bill on Fixed-term Parliaments Bill.


Fixed-term Parliaments Bill

Is it not a common feature of the four examples that the noble Lord has suggested that a referendum can be argued for only when it changes the basis upon which those who would otherwise vote for it have been elected? I am personally opposed to referenda in all circumstances, but it could be argued that it is improper for people who are elected on one basis to make huge changes in their own interest and present that to the people. The four examples that he used have that commonality. Would it not be a good thing for Governments, oppositions and coalitions to think carefully before they bring before the Houses of Parliament such changes without a referendum built within them?


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
727 c1198 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
Subjects
Legislatures General elections Fixed-term parliaments Referendums Parliament Censure motions
Legislation
Fixed-term Parliaments Bill 2010-12
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk