Government gears up for next stage of EU (Withdrawal) Bill

The Government has today tabled amendments to improve its landmark Withdrawal Bill following close discussion with MPs across the House.

The move comes ahead of the EU (Withdrawal) Bill entering Report Stage next week and follows the eight days of debate during Committee Stage last year.

During the Bill’s passage through the House of Commons, the Government has worked with and listened to MPs who have made constructive suggestions to ensure our statute book functions on exit day.

On the correcting power in the Bill, the Government would add further, specific guarantees to those already in place which will clarify the strict limits on when the power can be used.

Minister for Exiting the EU, Steve Baker said:

“This is a landmark piece of legislation which is paving the way for our smooth departure from the EU.

“That’s why our consistent approach to the Bill has been to listen and work with MPs who’ve made constructive suggestions to improve it.

“In bringing forward these amendments today, we’re showing the seriousness with which we take Parliament’s views.  We’re looking forward to hearing the debate on these, and further amendments tabled by others, next week.”

In an effort to boost legal certainty, and responding to suggestions made by MPs during Committee stage, the Government has also brought forward an amendment relating to the general principles of EU law. These are the binding legal principles that shape EU law and the way it is interpreted. Citizens and businesses would have an additional three months after exit day to start court cases where they believe the general principles of EU law have not been followed prior to exit day.  

A further proposal reflects the ongoing dialogue between the Government and devolved administrations, changing the way in which Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland can use the correcting power. Where they previously needed to seek the consent of the UK Government they would now only need to consult.

The Bill’s Report Stage and Third Reading will take place on Tuesday 16 and Wednesday 17 January. After that, it will move to the House of Lords for further scrutiny.