Secretary of State’s power to give directions to UKRI

Oral Answers to Questions — Work and Pensions – in the House of Commons at 9:06 pm on 21 November 2016.

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Votes in this debate

Amendment proposed: 56, page 59, line 45, at end insert—

“(6) In giving direction to UKRI, the Secretary of State must act in the best interests of all constituent parts of the United Kingdom and, before giving such direction, must consult on research and innovation policies and their priorities with the following—

(a) the Scottish Government,

(b) the Welsh Government, and

(c) the Northern Ireland Executive.

(7) Before giving any direction to UKRI under subsection (1), the Secretary of State must seek agreement to the terms of that direction from—

(a) the Scottish Government,

(b) the Welsh Government, and

(c) the Northern Ireland Executive.”—(Carol Monaghan.)

This amendment would place a duty on the Secretary of State such that before giving directions to the UKRI in regards to research priorities, the Secretary of State must consult the devolved administrations.

Question put, That the amendment be made.

The House divided:

Ayes 217, Noes 275.

Division number 92 Higher Education and Research Bill: Report Stage Amendment 56

Aye: 217 MPs

No: 275 MPs

Aye: A-Z by last name

Tellers

No: A-Z by last name

Tellers

Question accordingly negatived.

Clause 112