Sir Patrick Cormack FSA

Conservative Party | Staffordshire South

Business of the House

Sir Patrick Cormack (South Staffordshire) (Con): Could the Leader of the House tell us when we will have the opportunity to debate the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill? Will she assure the House that the conscience clauses will not be subject to a Government Whip?

Ms Harman: The hon. Gentleman will know that the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill has completed its passage through the House of Lords following its introduction there, and that votes were whipped on both sides. [Hon. Members: “Not true.”] Well, if I am wrong about that and if I am reminded in what respect I am wrong, I shall correct myself at some point. The Bill will come before this House in due course. It is a Government Bill, but the question of how different clauses are dealt with will be decided in due course.