House of Commons · General Debate
17 July 2023 · 7 other contributors
Opened by Christopher Chope Con Christchurch
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Christopher Chope raised concerns about liaison committee in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Chope argues against expanding the powers of the Liaison Committee beyond its original remit as outlined in Standing Order No. 145. He emphasises that the current motion seeks to appoint specialist advisers for an inquiry on strategic thinking in government, which he believes should be handled by other Select Committees or existing parliamentary structures.
Chope criticises the proposed changes as mission creep and argues that the Liaison Committee's role is already well-defined in Standing Order No. 145, which does not justify additional powers or funding for specialist advisers. He points out that other Select Committees are better suited to conduct inquiries into strategic thinking within their specific areas of responsibility.
Spellar intervenes multiple times to suggest that the Public Accounts Committee and a joint strategic committee could be more appropriate bodies for such an inquiry, given their existing remits and expertise in handling issues related to government strategy and public administration.
Clarified that it is customary for Members to be present at the start of a speech if they are going to intervene. Admonished John Spellar for not adhering to this custom.
Asked whether there has been any reference from Defence Committee on whether this move is appropriate, and inquired about potential hearings and evidence sessions by the Liaison Committee.
Welcomed progress in strategic thinking within Government and acknowledged Bernard Jenkin's role in promoting it.
Acknowledged the support among Select Committee Chairs for the inquiry. Emphasised the importance of obtaining information on cross-departmental issues, precedents for Liaison Committee inquiries, and the relevance of international best practices in strategic thinking.
Questioned the wide scope of terms of reference set by the Liaison Committee for written evidence submissions and called for a focus on Select Committees' effectiveness within their remit.
Government Response
Commended the motion to the House. The appointment will be made within the current budget envelope, limiting mission creep.