Constitutional reform Bill 'when time allows'

A constitutional reform Bill will be introduced only "when time allows" during the next Parliamentary year, the Government signalled today.

Moves to allow MPs a say on going to war and greater scrutiny of treaties were trumpeted by Gordon Brown when he became Prime Minister last year.

But, with recession-fighting measures now central to the Government's plans, there was no Bill to enact the constitutional "renewal" reforms in today's Queen's Speech.

"My Government will continue to take forward proposals on constitutional renewal, including strengthening the role of Parliament and other measures," the Queen said.

Other proposals which have been under consideration include removing the requirement - introduced under Tony Blair - to give notice of demonstrations around Parliament.

The office and responsibilities of the Attorney General face reforms, along with the National Audit Office.

Ministers also want the civil service put on a statutory footing.