Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill [HL]

My Lords, your Lordships will appreciate that there is a very important point to be made before we even get to the merits of this matter. It was made to some extent when we discussed the amendment moved by the right reverend Prelate, but this is an even more glaring example of how routine and draconian timetabling of Bills prevents proper discussion by the elected representatives of the people of important measures. That is a shocking state of affairs. These major changes were discussed for just two hours in the Public Bill Committee and were never discussed at all on the Floor of the House of Commons. An amendment to remove them was never reached; and it was without debate and with the use of a three-line Whip that these new proposals were added to the Bill. If we reject these changes we will be doing a service to the House of Commons, because for the first time there will be an opportunity for the other place to discuss these matters properly. I have heard from far more erudite and informed people than myself on the merits of the proposal, so I shall spare the House my views; but I hope that noble Lords take the point that I have made. It is surely our duty to see that the House of Commons considers these matters properly, which it has not done so far.