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British Library (Powers) Bill - New Clause 1 Expiry
12 March 2021
Lead MP
Christopher Chope
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
Culture, Media & Sport
Other Contributors: 5
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 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:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
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.
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.
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
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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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
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