Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Bill

The Bill is crucial for recognising the CPA as an international organisation, which has been a long-standing concern. It ensures that the ICRC can continue to operate in accordance with its mandate and maintains the confidentiality necessary for its work.

The Speaker appreciates Maria Miller's efforts towards securing a solid future for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, welcoming her contributions to the Bill.

Elmore pays tribute to Dame Maria Miller for her strong advocacy on this issue and highlights the importance of international recognition for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). He mentions the cross-party collaboration in advancing the Bill, noting that it is crucial for maintaining the CPA's presence in the UK while addressing member states' requests for status resolution. Elmore emphasises the positive impact on parliamentary democracy and humanitarian aid, stressing the need to support these organisations fully.

Britcliffe commends the Bill for its technical provisions that grant international status to the CPA and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). She stresses the importance of these organisations in promoting parliamentary democracy and providing humanitarian aid, especially given the global challenges they face. Britcliffe asks about support from the Government and Parliament for strengthening democracy across the Commonwealth and enhancing the ICRC's operations.

Brereton congratulates Maria Miller on advancing the Bill, which recognises the CPA and ICRC as international organisations under UK law. He highlights the CPA's role in promoting parliamentary democracy and its importance in an increasingly hostile world where democratic rights are threatened. Brereton also emphasises the ICRC's critical humanitarian work, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine, Gaza, Afghanistan, and Syria.

SPEAKER Nickie Aiken speaks in favour of the Bill introduced by her right hon. Friend, paying tribute to Dame Maria Miller's work with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). She emphasises the importance of the CPA in fostering connections and sharing good practice among 180 Parliaments and legislatures across the Commonwealth.

INTERVENTION Sara Britcliffe pays tribute to Dame Maria Miller for her work with new parliamentarians and promoting women in Parliament. She highlights the importance of teaching others about parliamentary procedures.

INTERVENTION Chris Elmore discusses his role as treasurer of the CPA branch and encourages more Members to engage with the CPA both domestically and internationally.

INTERVENTION Sara Britcliffe reiterates the importance of highlighting the benefits of the CPA to encourage more Members to engage without fear.

INTERVENTION Jack Brereton agrees that encouraging women is important but also highlights the need for more young people in parliamentary democracies across the Commonwealth.

The Bill grants the CPA a legal status similar to other international organisations, which will enhance its standing internationally. The CPA’s headquarters staying in Westminster is crucial for maintaining unity and stability within the Commonwealth. Labour supports this Bill as it strengthens the influence of Commonwealth parliamentarians and provides a more authoritative presence globally.

The Minister supports the Bill and highlights its importance in reinforcing democracy against authoritarianism. He emphasises the CPA's non-partisan work to promote parliamentary democracy, and the ICRC’s role as a unique humanitarian agency with unparalleled access in conflict zones. The Bill ensures both organisations can operate effectively under international law while protecting their operational principles.

[INTERVENTION] Acknowledges the importance of private Member's Bills and cross-party cooperation in pushing through legislation. Emphasises the significance of this Bill for international partners and its potential to strengthen democratic and humanitarian efforts globally.

[INTERVENTION] Clarifies that a specific element introduced in Committee was not discussed during Report stage. Urges the Government to ensure early agreement on privileges and immunities with affected parties before laying them before Parliament.

Maria Miller thanked all participants, including her colleagues and the Minister, for their support in recognising the ICRC and CPA as international organisations. She emphasised that this Bill will assist both organisations to better perform their duties and expressed gratitude towards the FCDO's continuous support.