HL Deb 26 July 1999 vol 604 c145WA
Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will support the appointment of a joint committee on human rights with effect from the beginning of the next Parliamentary Session; and, if riot, why not. [HL3762]

Baroness Jay of Paddington

The Government have already announced that they will invite both Houses to appoint a joint committee. This is in the context of the Human Rights Act 1998. The Act will come into force on 2 October 2000. It remains the intention to set up the joint committee before the Human Rights Act comes fully into force, but no decision has been taken on when exactly both Houses will be asked to approve Motions to appoint such a joint committee.

Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will ensure that any joint committee on human rights will examine statements of compatibility made by Ministers under Section 19 of the Human Rights Act 1998 and report to both Houses of Parliament; and, if not, why not. [HL3763]

Baroness Jay of Paddington

The terms of reference of the joint committee have yet to be finalised and proposed to both Houses. It is envisaged that they will include the examination of draft legislation where there is a doubt about compatibility with the incorporated convention rights. It will be for the joint committee to decide how it carries out its responsibilities.