Deep Sea Mining Bill (Ways and Means)

Debate between Lady Hermon and Baroness Primarolo

Tuesday 15th October 2013 Commons Chamber

[Lady Hermon]

I was particularly struck by the Minister’s phrase that the Bill will benefit “British companies” and allow them to exploit the deep sea bed. The Bill runs to only two clauses, but does it contain a clause that I have not noticed which reduces those who can mine the deep sea bed around England, Wales and Northern Ireland—but not Scotland—to British companies only?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Dawn Primarolo)]

Order. Before the Minister answers, it may be helpful if I remind the House that we are not discussing the Bill. This is about the charging regime for the licences; the debate is on the Ways and Means motion. I fear that we are in danger of debating the Bill, which would not be in order this evening. I know that the Minister is trying to keep in order.