Commons second reading: Local Audit and Accountability Bill
28 October 2013
MPs are to debate the second reading of the Local Audit and Accountability Bill in the House of Commons, on Monday 28 October 2013
The debate is expected to begin at between 4.15 and 4.45pm, following the conclusion of the statement on the EU Council. Timings are approximate and Parliamentary business is subject to change.
Transcripts of proceedings in the House of Commons Chamber are available three hours after they happen in Today’s Commons Debates.
Related Information
Summary of the Local Audit and Accountability Bill [HL]
The Local Audit and Accountability Bill [HL] would abolish the Audit Commission and replace it with a new audit regime for local authorities, local health bodies and other public bodies covered by the Commission’s remit.
The Bill would also amend the current regulations on council tax referendums, and permit the Secretary of State to direct local authorities to comply with the local authority publicity code.
The Bill follows a process of consultation and Parliamentary scrutiny undertaken since the decision to abolish the Commission was taken in August 2010.
Progress of the Bill
The Bill was introduced to the House of Lords on 9 May 2013. It completed its Lords stages on 24 July 2013 and was introduced to the Commons with first reading on 29 August 2013.
Keep up to date with all the proceedings and documentation, including amendment papers, on the Local Audit and Accountability Bill and find out how a bill becomes an Act of Parliament.
- Follow Bills before Parliament: Local Audit and Accountability Bill [HL]
- About Parliament: Passage of a Bill
House of Commons Library analysis
The House of Commons Library produces briefing papers to inform MPs and their staff 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 second reading.
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.
This article was produced by the Commons Digital Outreach Team. Follow the @HouseofCommons on Twitter for updates on the UK House of Commons Chamber.