Parliamentary bill

[Jodie Day]

how many readings are in a parliamentary bill

[GilesBennett]

An parliamentary Bill must pass through three readings in both Houses. The majority are introduced in the House of Commons, but less controversial Bills can begin in the House of Lords. The first reading is a formality to announce the existence of the Bill. In the second reading the principles behind the Bill are examined and debated and the House votes whether to accept or reject it (all of which is recorded in Hansard). If it is successful the Speaker allocates it to a Standing Committee for detailed consideration. The Bill is then reprinted with any amendments recommended by the Standing Committee and receives a third reading in the House. If the Commons approves the Bill it then enters the Lords and goes through a similar process, except the committee stage is normally taken before the entire House. Again, the Lords may amend the Bill and it will be reprinted. If on it's third Lords reading the Bill is approved, it goes back to the Commons for agreement to any Lords amendments. Once approved the Bill receives Royal Assent and becomes an Act.