Mark Whitehead 03 February 2015

Hague unveils English laws vetos

English MPs would be given a veto on legislation affecting only England under Conservative proposals for electoral reform.

Speaking to BBC Breakfast William Hague, chair of the Cabinet Committee on Devolution, said the reforms would deliver 'fairness to the people of England'.

It would mean MPs from the whole UK would continue to be able to debate and vote on English laws, but the committee stage - where line-by-line scrutiny takes place - would be restricted to MPs representing the parts of the UK where they apply.

Labour has called for a cross-party convention to consider the matter. The party has also suggested giving a greater role to English, or English and Welsh MPs, in scrutinising legislation that does not apply elsewhere in the UK.

Mr Hague is expected to say it is a 'fundamental matter of fairness' that English changes in these areas should have the agreement of English MPs.

The UK's Budget Bill would be considered in the same way, but 'where taxes have been devolved to Scotland, the equivalent taxes in England would require the consent of English MPs'.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior/Principal Regeneration Officer

Fareham Borough Council
£45,465 - £55,379
Our town centre regeneration is moving from planning to delivery, and we're looking for someone who wants to help make regeneration happen. Fareham, Hampshire
Recuriter: Fareham Borough Council

Chief Legal Officer

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
£101,275 - £117,266
We are now seeking an exceptional legal leader to join us as Chief Legal Officer. Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Major Events Manager

Powys County Council
£49817 - £51928
This is an exciting opportunity to lead Powys County Council's preparations for three major events in 2027 Llandrindod Wells, Powys
Recuriter: Powys County Council

Debtors and Collection Officers

Durham County Council
£27,274 to £29,542 p.a. (Grade 5)
This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and ever-changing revenues environment. You’ll have the chance to develop your skills, gain valuable Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Higher Level Teaching Assistant X 2

Durham County Council
£33,673 - £37,563
Permanent Contract – Full Time, 37 hours per week Term Time Only plus 2 weeks Required to start as soon as possible.   The Woodlands is County Durham’ Ferryhill
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner