Commons to vote on Cook reform package

Members of Parliament will vote later this month on far-reaching reforms of the House of Commons, Robin Cook, the Leader of the House, said yesterday.

They will hold a debate on 29 October on plans for early sittings and reforms of parliamentary questions.

The proposals include bringing the start of the parliamentary day forward from 2.30pm to 11.30am and ending at 7pm rather than 10pm.

Mr Cook is also proposing to reduce MPs' long summer break, with Parliament returning in September before the party conference season.

But modernisers in Parliament fear that traditionalists may overturn the reforms, which are designed to make the system more open.

Conservatives oppose parts of the reform package, arguing that they will make it easier for ministers to push through legislation by weakening the ability of the opposition to kill a Bill at the end of the Parliamentary session.

Eric Forth, the shadow Leader of the House, told MPs: "Sadly, this is not a matter which has been agreed by all parties as has been the case in the past.

"[Mr Cook] is bringing forward a number of proposals which do not have agreement. Is it too late at this stage for further discussion on this matter? When are we going to see the wording of these motions, arising from these very controversial matters."

Mr Cook said: "I think there comes a time when it is important to make a decision. I think on a matter that has been before the House for more than a year it is time to take a decision."