Modernisation

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 2:34 pm on 6 November 2003.

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Photo of David Kidney David Kidney Labour, Stafford 2:34, 6 November 2003

Would my hon. Friend agree that these recent exchanges overlook an important body of membership of the House? I refer to Back-Bench Members who support the Government of the day. Under the old system they were under great pressure to shut up and do nothing. I can remember a Whip telling me to fill in my Christmas cards rather than even follow the debate. Under programming, Back-Bench Members get an equal share of the time if they want to participate in debate. I would argue that the quality of debates in Committee has increased greatly.