MP launches petition for English Votes for English Laws

16th January 2015
MP launches petition for English Votes for English Laws

Sittingbourne & Sheppey MP Gordon Henderson has launched a petition in support of English votes for English Laws.

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement of his commitment to deliver “English votes for English laws” in his speech at the Conservative Party Conference, Gordon and a number of his parliamentary colleagues from across England are organising similar petitions to present jointly to Parliament on February 24.

Gordon Henderson MP said,

“I support fully the principle that MPs should only vote on those issues that directly affect their constituents. With so many powers now devolved to the various countries within the UK, it is right that matters which only affect England should be decided by English MPs only.

“In terms of how ‘English Votes for English Laws’ should be delivered, I support the proposal to amend Standing Orders so that where a Bill, part of a Bill, or Motion, applies only to England, a Member representing a constituency in a part of the UK to which legislative power has been devolved may speak but not vote in proceedings relating to that devolved matter.

“I believe in two key principles. First, Bills and Motions coming before Parliament should be clear about which part or parts of the UK they apply, and second, if there is serious doubt about whether a matter affects the whole of the UK then the whole House should decide.”

Those wishing to support ‘English votes for English Laws’ by signing the petition can download a copy by CLICKING HERE and return it to the constituency office, or by contacting their local Conservative Councillor.

Closing date for signatures is Monday 16 February.