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Lords question QC on Opt-Out decision

Lords question QC on Opt-Out decision

8 January 2013

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The inquiry on the UK’s 2014 Opt-out Decision – or Protocol 36 – will hold its first evidence session on Wednesday 9 January 2013

The inquiry is being conducted jointly by two of the Lords EU Sub-Committees – Home Affairs, Health and Education, chaired by Lord Hannay of Chiswick, and Justice, Institutions and Consumer Protection, chaired by Lord Bowness.

On Wednesday, the Committee will be speaking to Martin Howe QC, a former member of the Government's Bill of Rights Commission and an EU law specialist.

The Committee will question Mr Howe on issues including:

  • Whether he believes the Government should exercise the opt-out and, if so, which of the measures it should opt back in to;
  • If the UK’s influence across Europe on issues such as the raising the standard of trial rights would be affected should the UK opt out of Protocol 36; and
  • Any concerns arising from the extension of the European Court of Justice’s jurisdiction over police and criminal justice measures.

The evidence sessions will take place on Wednesday 9 January at 4pm in Committee Room 1.