Commons second reading of Defence Reform Bill

The Secretary of State for Defence, Philip Hammond, moved the debate on the Bill.

The Bill passed without a division and will now proceed to its Committee stage.

• Watch Parliament TV: Second reading debate of the Defence Reform Bill
• Read Commons Hansard: Second reading of the Defence Reform Bill

Summary of the Defence Reform Bill

To make provision in connection with any arrangements that may be made by the Secretary of State with respect to the provision to the Secretary of State of defence procurement services; to make provision relating to defence procurement contracts awarded, or amended, otherwise than as the result of a competitive process; to make provision in relation to the reserve forces of the Crown; and for connected purposes.

Progress of the Bill

The Bill was introduced into the House of Commons on 3 July 2013.

Keep up to date with all the proceedings and documentation, including amendment papers, on the Defence Reform Bill and find out how a bill becomes an Act of Parliament.

• Follow Bills before Parliament: Defence Reform Bill
• About Parliament: Passage of a Bill

House of Commons Library analysis

The House of Commons Library produces briefing papers to inform MPs of key issues. The papers contain factual information and a range of opinions on each subject, and aim to be politically impartial. The Library has published a briefing paper for the second reading.

• Read Library briefing paper: Defence Reform Bill

What happens at second reading?

At second reading the House debates the whole principle of the bill. It usually takes place no sooner than two weekends after first reading.

The Member in charge or the Minister moves the motion ‘that the bill be now read a second time’. MPs then debate the bill.

At the end of the debate the Speaker determines whether there are any objections to the motion being debated and asks for the Ayes and Noes.

Members voice their opinion, and if no objections are made, the bill passes second reading without a vote. If the Speaker believes Members have voiced disagreement a division is called and a vote taken.

What happens after second reading?

If the motion at second reading is agreed to, the Bill will go to a Public Bill Committee for consideration.

Watching proceedings from the public gallery

UK residents and overseas visitors can watch proceedings in the House of Commons by visiting the public gallery.

• How to attend a debate in the Chamber or in Westminster Hall

This article was produced by the Commons Digital Outreach Team. Follow @HouseofCommons on Twitter for updates on the UK House of Commons Chamber.