Monday 12 November 2007

Written Ministerial Statement

Topical Debates

Leader of the House of Commons and Lord Privy Seal (Rt. Hon Harriet Harman MP):  The House recently approved (25 October) the introduction of topical debates, as recommended by the Select Committee on Modernisation in its report, 'Revitalising the Chamber: the role of the back bench Member' .  This will extend the opportunities in the chamber to discuss topical issues of regional, national or international importance.  Topical debates will last for 90 minutes and take place on a weekly basis.

A Member seeking such a debate may do so in the following ways:

• In writing to the Leader of the House of Commons;
• Via the e-mail link on the home page of the website of the Leader of the House of Commons (www.commonsleader.gov.uk);
• By requesting a topical debate during the weekly Business Questions; and
• In person to the Leader of the House of Commons.

Following discussions, the House will be notified of the subject selected, either during the announcement of business on Thursday or through the order paper, depending on the date chosen for the debate.  The subject will appear on the annunciator alongside other business

As agreed by the House, the motion for these debates will be 'That this House has considered [the matter of XXX]' and will not be amendable.  The debates will be subject to limits on speeches as agreed by the House.