Law AS Level - Stages of Bills

Eduqas

First Reading

A notification of the proposed measure - the title of the proposed Bill is read out to the HOC.

Second Reading

The first opportunity for MPs to debate the Bill's principles. After this, a vote is taken on whether or not to proceed.

Committee Stage

A detailed examination of every clause (part) of the Bill. Every clause is either agreed to, changed, or removed, taking into account the points made in 1st / 2nd Readings.

Report Stage

The committee reports back to the HOC. Any suggested amendments are debated and voted on.

Third Reading

The final chance for the HOC to debate the Bill. No amendments can be made at this stage.

House of Lords

The Bill goes to the HOL and undergoes three readings. If the HOL changes anything, the Bill has to go back to the HOC (known as "ping pong").

Royal Assent

If agreement between the HOC & HOL is reached, the crown has to give royal assent (say yes). The monarch always says yes.

Commencement

When the Bill takes effect (on a specified date rather than the moment the monarch gives Royal Assent).