Further written evidence to be reported to the House
Political Parties and Elections Bill
1:00 pm
Andrew Tyrie (Chichester, Conservative)
Further to that point of order, Sir Nicholas. I am very concerned about this, first, because it was discussed informally before we met the first time. I received clarification that, under the new public Bill procedure, there would be scope for flexibility, to enable the tabling of amendments in the light of evidence that was submitted. I specifically discussed that, and was given the same information that we have just received about what happened through the usual channels, before the start of our formal meetings.
Secondly, if I may say so, it is a little unreasonable to ask us to provide written evidence of where we think that we might need to table amendments, bearing in mind that all the relevant people are sitting here in front of you for the whole period, Sir Nicholas. We cannot even be sure that the House will run until 6.30 pm; debate may close earlier. Thirdly, to provide one example, you were in the Chair, Sir Nicholas, when the Electoral Commission said that it would like to add to the evidence. It produced a specific example relating to its concerns about the appointment to the commission board, and the change of the 10-year rule to five years. [Interruption.] I am pleased that the Minister wishes to speak, but I do not wish to prejudge whom the Chair might call.