Crispin Blunt

Conservative Party | Reigate

Hunting Bill

Mr. Crispin Blunt (Reigate) (Con): Is not the key issue one of parliamentary democracy in a bicameral system? This is a moral question, which is why there is a free vote with no fixed party positions. The issue is similar to abortion and assisted dying, where it is for individuals to reach their own point of view. The Government are required to provide parliamentary time for such issues to pass.

However, the other Chamber should also endorse the legislative changes when they are as controversial as this issue, abortion or assisted dying. There should be a triple lock—both Chambers and the Government making time for legislation—before we start removing the liberties that have been held by substantial minorities for so long.