Chloe SmithMP for Norwich North
Chloe SmithMember of Parliament for Norwich North, Chloe Smith, was in Westminster yesterday as a petition calling for English Votes for English Laws is delivered to Parliament; Chloe will present signatures from dozens of her constituents.
Following the Scottish referendum on independence, the Scottish Parliament will be given new powers on a range of issues. Chloe supports her constituents who have raised their deep concerns that it could not be justified to have Scottish MPs sitting at Westminster voting on budgets and laws that only apply to English voters without the consent of English MPs.
A Cabinet Committee, chaired by the First Secretary of State, William Hague, was set up last year to bring forward further proposals for a new devolution settlement for the UK. The Government was clear that it wanted to take these measures forward on a cross-party basis with input from the Opposition and others. It was therefore disappointing to see the Labour Leader refuse to take part.
Conservative Ministers have now announced plans to bring in English votes for English laws. In effect, the proposals mean that English MPs would have a veto over legislation - including income tax - that only affects England. This is a fundamental issue of fairness. It would properly balance the rights of all voters across the United Kingdom whilst also maintaining the integrity of the Union.
These proposals will be in the Conservative Party's election manifesto.
Speaking from Westminster, Chloe said:
“I asked to hear from my constituents on this vital issue, and they have made their voice heard by signing this petition. I wholly support their view that there is no justification for Scottish MPs to hold such influence over budgets and law that no longer affect their constituents.”
“This petition shows the strength of feeling in Norwich, and across England, that our democracy would be undermined if we do not act to ensure English Votes for English Laws.”