Civil Contingencies Bill

HC Deb 08 March 2004 vol 418 c1263W

Mr. Heald

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office what plans he has to table amendments to the Civil Contingencies Bill. [158901]

Mr. Alexander

Following a commitment given to the hon. Member for Sheffield Hallam during Committee Stage, the Government will amend the Bill to require a declaration of compatibility with the Human Rights Act to be made when emergency regulations are brought forward.

The Government will also amend the Bill to make provisions regarding cross-border co-operation, following a commitment given to the hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland. This follows discussions with the Scottish Executive.

The Government will keep the need to table further amendments to the Bill under review.