Committee (5th Day)

Part of Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill – in the House of Lords at 3:45 pm on 15 December 2010.

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Photo of Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke Baroness Liddell of Coatdyke Labour 3:45, 15 December 2010

My noble friend brings back even more painful memories, because also taking part in that election broadcast was Mr Jim Sillars. In fact the late Professor John P Mackintosh, who by coincidence had been my professor at university, actually committed the Labour Party to full tax-raising powers for a Scottish Parliament as well and it took some years to finesse the policy afterwards.

While people probably go and switch on the kettle whenever there is an opportunity to watch a party-political broadcast, I urge your Lordships to take this matter particularly seriously. Seeking and opposing an interim interdict is an extensive and diversionary activity and I urge the coalition to take my noble and learned friend Lord Falconer of Thoroton's amendment very seriously.