Law parliamentary law making

What are the green papers

Document the which outlines the government’s views and invites feedback from interested parties. The gov then decides on any changes

White papers

Following green, has firm proposals for a new law may include a draft bill.

Bills

Drafted by parliamentary counsel to the treasury. Draft bill before it becomes an act.

Public bills

Most frequent, affect the country at large

Private bill

Affects one group or corporation

Private members bill

Introduced by a single MP

From bill to Act (1)- first reading

Formal procedure name/ aims read out. No discussion no vote

(2) Second reading

Main debate. Main principles. Vote at end of debate and needs majority to progress

(3) Committee Stage

16-50 MP’s with knowledge in the area form a committee. The group scrutinise the smaller details. Committee can propose amendments or additions and these are voted on.

(4) Report Stage

Committee reports any amendments to the rest of the house. Debates changes and further amendments can be added then majority vote and moves on. No amendments no report stage!

(5) Third reading

Formality, only a further debate if 6 MP’s request it.

(6) Other House

Bill is sent to House of Lords, can only delay for up to a year (Parliament Acts 1911/1949) it can be reintroduced and passed in the next session

(7) Royal Assent

The king then assents to the Act. Royal Assents Act 1967 means the king only receives a short title. The king realistically has no say in this.