HL Deb 10 December 1973 vol 347 c867
LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they propose to renew the right of individuals to petition the European Commission of Human Rights when the present two-year period of acceptance of Article 25 ends in January, 1974.

THE LORD CHANCELLOR (LORD HAILSHAM OF SAINT MARYLEBONE)

My Lords, Her Majesty's Government will renew their acceptance of Article 25 of the European Convention on Human Rights for a further period of two years from January 14, 1974. It is also the Government's intention to renew for a similar period their declaration under Article 46 of the Convention which provides for the acceptance of the compulsory jurisdiction of the European Court of Human Rights.

LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, is the noble and learned Lord aware that on this unique occasion I have no supplementary question to ask?

THE LORD CHANCELLOR

My Lords, I am glad that we are breaking new ground.