Second reading of the Electoral Registration and Administration Bill

The Bill passed with a division (Ayes 283; Noes 219). The Bill will now be considered by a Committee of the whole House.

Shadow Minister for Justice, Wayne David, responded on behalf of the Opposition. An amenendment to the Bill by the Opposition was defeated following a division (Ayes 223; Noes 283).

Watch and read the second reading debate and the views expressed by MPs on Parliament TV and in Commons Hansard.

• Parliament TV: Second reading of Electoral Registration and Administration Bill
• Commons Hansard: Second reading of Electoral Registration and Administration Bill

Summary of the Bill

To make provision about the registration of electors and the administration and conduct of elections.

Keep up to date with all the proceedings and documentation on the Electoral Registration and Administration Bill and find out how a Bill becomes an Act of Parliament

• Bills before Parliament 2012-13: Electoral Registration and Administration Bill
• About Parliament: Passage of a Bill

House of Commons Library analysis

The House of Commons Library produce briefing papers to inform MPs of key issues. The Library published a briefing paper for second reading.

• Library briefing paper: Second reading of Electoral Registration and Administration Bill

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 or Committee of the whole House (in the Commons Chamber). Each clause (part) and any amendments (proposals for change) to the Bill may be debated.