Mental Health Discrimination Bill, Second reading
17 September 2012 (updated on 17 September 2012)
Gavin Barwell, Conservative MP for Croydon Central introduced the second reading of the Mental Health (Discrimination) (No.2) Bill in the House of Commons on 14 September 2012
The Bill passed without a division and will now be considered by a Public Bill Committee. The Mental Health (Discrimination) (No.2) Bill is a Private Members' Bill which was introduced to the House of Commons on the 20 June 2012.
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 Mental Health (Discrimination) (No.2) Bill
- Commons Hansard: Second reading of Mental Health (Discrimination) (No.2) Bill
Summary of the Bill
The aim of the Bill is to reduce the stigma and negative perceptions associated with mental illness. It would repeal legislative provisions that can prevent people with mental health conditions from serving as Members of Parliament, members of the devolved legislatures, jurors, or company directors.
Keep up to date with all the proceedings and documentation on the Mental Health (Discrimination) (No.2) Bill and find out how a Bill becomes an Act of Parliament
- Bills before Parliament 2012-13: Mental Health (Discrimination) (No.2) 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.
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.