What happened in the Lords: 1-5 February
4 February 2021
In the House of Lords from Monday 1 to Thursday 4 February, government scrutiny continued with daily oral questions on topics including the impact of Brexit on the logistics industry, and support for musicians touring in Europe. Members also continued a detailed examination of the Domestic Abuse Bill, and reviewed House of Commons changes to the Trade Bill and Medicines and Medical Devices Bill.
Read on for more highlights of the week or see a full list of the week's business.
Catch up
Monday 1st February
Members challenged government action on the outcomes of the Dunlop Review into UK Government Union capability, the impact of Brexit on the UK logistics industry and more in Lords Questions.
Later, there was an urgent question on ensuring people receive the second dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine within 12 weeks. The House also continued its line by line review of the Domestic Abuse Bill in committee stage day three, with protection for victims during family court proceedings and confidentiality of refuge addresses on the agenda.
In Grand Committee, members debated the Lords International Relations and Defence Committee's report on the UK's relationship with the Pacific Alliance.
Tuesday 2nd February
Business began with Lords Questions, with members raising concerns on provisions for online learning for school pupils and financial support for farmers following the UK’s exit from the EU. There was also a Private Notice Question (urgent question) on the reported military coup in Burma.
Members then reviewed Coronavirus regulations on renters’ protections from eviction and voted to put their concerns on record, and considered House of Commons changes to the Medicines and Medical Devices Bill and Trade Bill.
Members asked government to think again on the Trade Bill, including on agreements with states accused of committing genocide or crimes against humanity, protecting UK standards and Parliament’s role in approving international trade agreements and treaties.
Wednesday 3rd February
Business began with Lords Questions from 12. Questions covered topics including government plans to appoint a dedicated minister for the hospitality sector, and support for the music industry in relation to touring and working in Europe.
There was also a Private Notice Question (urgent question) on whether the government will implement a mandatory hotel quarantine for all travellers to the UK.
After questions, members continued to examine the Domestic Abuse Bill on day four of committee stage.
Thursday 4th February
Lords Questions opened business at 12. Members pressed the government on the future of rail commuting and plans to return the House to physical proceedings once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
There was also a Private Notice Question (urgent question) on the operation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, and updates on COVID-19 and health measures at the border.
Later, second reading of the National Security and Investment Bill took place as members debated the key principles and main purpose of the draft law.
Committees and additional business
House of Lords committees met throughout the week. See a full list of the week's meetings.