Scotland Bill

Debate between Lord Bassam of Brighton and Earl of Shrewsbury

Tuesday 6th September 2011 Lords Chamber

[The Earl of Shrewsbury]

My Lords, forgive me for intervening, but would it not be much more sensible, for a Bill of this constitutional importance, to deal with half of it today, and half on Friday? Then we can all do it properly.

[Lord Bassam of Brighton]

My Lords, I only venture into this to say that I think that the Government are wise at all times to be flexible in their approach. Although I am part of the usual channels, I must say I did predict at the time that this would not be an easy passage for the Bill. I go no further than that, because I do not want to undermine the effectiveness of the workings of the usual channels. However, I think that noble Lords agree that these are points that are very well made to the House, and they have validity.