Second reading of Constitutional Reform and Governance Bill
21 October 2009 (updated on 22 April 2010)
The House of Commons debated the second reading of the Constitutional Reform and Governance Bill - a motion was also passed to allow the Bill to be carried-over to the next session of Parliament if required
- Commons Hansard: Second reading of the Constitutional Reform and Governance Bill
- Video and Audio: Second reading of the Constitutional Reform and Governance Bill
- Bills before Parliament: Constitutional Reform and Governance Bill
- About Parliament: Second reading
Second reading is the first opportunity for MPs to debate the main principles of the Bill. It usually takes place no sooner than two weekends after first reading.
The Government minister, spokesperson or MP responsible for the Bill opens the second reading debate. The official Opposition spokesperson responds with their views on the Bill.
The debate continues with other Opposition parties and backbench MPs giving their opinions. At the end of the debate, the Commons decides whether the Bill should be given its second reading by voting, meaning it can proceed to the next stage.