HL Deb 28 July 2000 vol 616 cc103-4WA
Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Baroness Jay of Paddington on 11 July (WA 26), whether the consultations on the proposed Joint Committee on Human Rights are likely to be concluded in sufficient time to enable the Joint Committee to be set up before the coming into force of the Human Rights Act 1998 on 2 October 2000; and, if not, why not. [HL3602]

Baroness Jay of Paddington

The Government have made every effort to take forward negotiations on the Joint Committee on Human Rights through the usual channels in both Houses with a view to establishing the Committee before the summer. Discussions are still taking place and unfortunately it is now, therefore, very unlikely that consultations on the Joint Committee will be concluded before the summer adjournment.

Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they first announced their support for the creation of a Joint Committee on Human Rights; and what has been the progress of this proposal since it was first announced. [HL3603]

Baroness Jay of Paddington

We explained our views on a Joint Committee on Human Rights in the Human Rights Bill White Paper. Draft terms of references were drawn up earlier this year, and consultations through the usual channels began in the spring, as indicated in my answer of 25 May. This House has now agreed to the proposed terms of reference; we await the concurrence of the other place.