Second reading of Drugs (Roadside testing) Bill
13 June 2011 (updated on 13 June 2011)
Christopher Chope, Conservative MP for Christchurch, introduced the second reading of the Drugs (Roadside Testing) Bill, a Private Members' Bill, on Friday 10 June
Broadly, the Bill would make provision for roadside resting for illegal drugs.
The Bill was withdrawn by Christopher Chope after the debate and will make no further progress.
Watch and read the views expressed by MPs and the response by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, James Brokenshire, on Parliament TV and in Commons Hansard.
- Parliament TV: Drugs (Roadside Testing) Bill, second reading
- Commons Hansard: Drugs (Roadside Testing) Bill, second reading
- Topics: Drugs crimes
Private Members' Bills
Private Members' Bills are Public Bills introduced by MPs and Members of the Lords who aren't government ministers. As with other Public Bills their purpose is to change the law as it applies to the general population.
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.
What happens at second 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.
What happens after second reading?
The Bill proceeds to committee stage and will be considered in a Public Bill Committee. Each clause (part) and any amendments (proposals for change) to the Bill may be debated.