Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

British Library (Powers) Bill - New Clause 1 Expiry

12 March 2021 · 5 other contributors

Opened by Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Christopher Chope raised concerns about british library (powers) bill - new clause 1 expiry in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Sir Christopher Chope moved that the clause be read a Second time, raising concerns about the British Library Board's borrowing powers and suggesting an expiry date for these powers.
  • Question put and agreed to, Bill read the Third time and passed.
  • Minister clarified that the Bill aligns the British Library with other arm's length museums without imposing any greater scrutiny.

Key requests to Government

Question put and agreed to, Bill read the Third time and passed.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

Sir Christopher Chope moved that the clause be read a Second time, raising concerns about the British Library Board's borrowing powers and suggesting an expiry date for these powers.

Other contributors (5)
  • Eleanor Laing Con

    Proposed amendment to limit the British Library Board’s power to borrow money to £1 million per year, but did not proceed further as the debate was about the clause's expiry.

  • Bim Afolami Con Hitchin and Harpenden

    Explained that the Bill aligns the British Library with other arm’s length museums, galleries and institutions. He also highlighted the success of business and IP centres funded by the grant in aid.

  • Alison McGovern Lab Birkenhead

    Fully supported the Bill and agreed with Bim Afolami's comments.

  • Matt Warman Con Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport

    Defended the proposal by arguing that it aligns the British Library with other similar institutions. He also provided details on funding allocated to cultural organisations.

  • Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

    Moved an amendment for clause expiry, expressing scepticism about the borrowing powers and suggesting a review of these powers. He ultimately withdrew his amendment after receiving clarifications.

Government Response

Matt Warman

Clarified that the Bill aligns the British Library with other arm’s length museums without imposing any greater scrutiny. He also provided details on funding allocated to cultural organisations.

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