Europe Bill Passes

Yesterday afternoon I sat through the debate on whether to postpone the third reading of the EU (Amendment) Bill to no earlier than 20th October. It was again a fascinating debate. There were 24 speakers - and of particular merit were the speeches of the Archbishop of York; Lady Butler-Sloss; Lady Williams of Crosby; Lord Gilbert and Lady Ashton, the leader of the House. In my view Lord Ashdown's was the most compelling speech.

The vote was a massive 277-184.

Watch or read the debate
http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/VideoPlayer.aspx?meetingId=1966&st=15:31:07
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200708/ldhansrd/text/80618-0002.htm#080618112000002