SEPTEMBER SITTINGS OF THE HOUSE

Early day motion 1004, tabled 11 November 2005 by David Heath (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 20 members.

That this House notes with surprise that the Leader of the House has arbitrarily dispensed with September sittings of the House without full consultation with honourable Members or a debate; further notes that this is a matter on which honourable Members hold a range of views, but that for many in the House and outside a period of 75 days of recess during which the Government cannot properly be held to account for its actions is unacceptable; further notes that the institution of September sittings was by Resolution of the House; and directs that any change to these arrangements should only be made following a debate in the House and following a vote rather than by surreptitious announcement by the Leader of the House.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 13, Labour 4, DUP 2, Conservative 1.