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This Week in the Commons 28 June 2019

28 June 2019 (updated on 28 June 2019)

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This week MPs debated immigration, climate change, the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill and more. Catch up with our weekly round up.

Legislation: Government Bills

Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill had its second reading in the Commons on June 25 2019.

The Bill revises the legal process in England and Wales for divorce, separation and for the dissolving of civil partnerships. It amends the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 and the Civil Partnerships Act 2004, which are currently the main statutes governing these proceedings. Proposed changes include introducing a minimum overall timeframe and a new option of a joint application where the decision to divorce is mutual.

Do you have relevant expertise and experience or a special interest in the Divorce, Dissolution & Separation Bill? If so, you can submit your views in writing to the House of Commons Public Bill Committee.

Kew Gardens (Leases) (No. 3) Bill [Lords]

The Kew Gardens (Leases) (No. 3) Bill had its second reading in the Commons on 24 June 2019 and has been sent to Public Bill Committee for detailed examination and evidence gathering.

This Bill changes the Government's powers of management for the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, allowing leases of up to 150 years, instead of the current limit of 31 years. This would enable Kew to generate more income from residential and commercial leases and enable it to achieve its core objectives including retaining UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Legislation: Private Members Bills

Two Private Members Bills were introduced to the House following Ten Minute Rule Motions this week:

Ministerial statements

The Prime Minister made a statement on the European Council on Monday 24 June.

Prime Minister's Questions

On 26 June 2019, the Prime Minister Theresa May took questions on UK arms sales to Saudi Arabia, the conflict in Yemen and more.

Watch PMQs from this week:

Opposition day debates

On 26 June 2019 MPs debated immigration in the House of Commons, in an Opposition Day debate. The subject was chosen by the Scottish National Party.

E-petitions debates

On Monday 24 June in the Westminster Hall Chamber, MPs debated an e-petition on unsustainable packaging.

Backbench business debates

On Thursday 27 June in the Commons Chamber, MPs took part in two general debates which had been scheduled by the Backbench Business Committee.

Westminster Hall debates

Debates on a variety of different subjects also took place in Westminster Hall on Tuesday 25, Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 June. See the Parliamentary calendar to find out what subjects were debated.

Select Committees

News from Parliamentary Select Committees, including the publication of reports and details of inquiries and evidence sessions are also available online.

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