§ 38. Andrew Selous (South-West Bedfordshire)If he will introduce legislation to prohibit Members for non-English seats in the House voting on matters pertaining only to England. [128485]
§ The Deputy Leader of the House of Commons (Mr. Phil Woolas)To facilitate for the House, given the lack of time, I simply say no.
§ Andrew SelousDoes the hon. Gentleman agree that probably nothing is more inclined to bring disharmony between the constituent nations of this United Kingdom than the passing of controversial and unpopular measures, as far as England is concerned, with the support of hon. Members who are not from England? What is he going to do about that?
§ Mr. WoolasThere is a fundamental disagreement. This House is sovereign and each Member of the House is equal—[Interruption.] Well, some may, in their opinion, be more equal than others. I do not think that the hon. Gentleman would say to hon. Members representing Northern Ireland constituencies that they should not be entitled to take part in legislative decisions that affect the United Kingdom as a whole, or indeed England. There is a disagreement.