Human Rights Legislation Reform — [Yvonne Fovargue in the Chair]

He argued against reforming the Human Rights Act, suggesting that it is working well and questioning the motives behind its proposed changes. He criticized the government for ignoring the Gross report's recommendations in favour of a book by a former Minister. Andrew Slaughter questioned the necessity of a comprehensive review, arguing that twenty years is not long enough for significant changes to human rights legislation. He pointed out that Magna Carta has lasted for about 800 years without repeal or replacement.

I am concerned about the government's stance on human rights and urge them to provide a clear explanation for their approach.

Neill supports the Human Rights Act and believes reform should be evidence-based, referencing Sir Peter Gross's report. He argues that the Bill of Rights goes beyond the manifesto commitment and undermines convention rights for UK citizens. Neill highlights the declining number of adverse judgments against the UK from 19 in 2011 to 4 in 2020 and suggests focusing on more pressing issues.

Reeves emphasised the strength of public support for the Human Rights Act, with nearly 250,000 petition signatures. She argued that the Act is integral to justice for victims, peace in Northern Ireland, and maintaining the Union. The Minister was urged to confirm the Bill would not return and scrap plans to replace the Human Rights Act. Reeves highlighted cases where the Act provided redress for victims of state failures, including military rape victims and women facing violence.

Jim Shannon supported retaining the Human Rights Act as it is, noting that over 230,000 people have signed a petition against its reform. He emphasised the importance of considering human rights when making trade deals and highlighted global issues such as the war in Ukraine, protests in Iran, and treatment in Hong Kong.

Asked the hon. Member whether they see any role for the protection of minority rights under the Human Rights Act and the ECHR. As Chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, Joanna Cherry stated that the committee's evidence shows the Human Rights Act is functioning effectively and enabled human rights to be enforced without need for recourse to the European Court of Human Rights. She expressed concern over the Government's lack of engagement with experts, Parliament, and the public before embarking on reforms proposed in the Bill of Rights Bill. The consultation exercise received over 12,000 responses, most in favour of maintaining the status quo or minor changes. Joanna stressed that the international perception of the Human Rights Act as a gold standard for human rights protections must be maintained.

Welcomes the petition against Human Rights Act reforms but argues that despite Prime Minister Liz Truss withdrawing her plans, the issue remains relevant due to its presence in successive Conservative manifestos. Criticises the Brexit Freedoms Bill as a radical piece of legislation entailing dismantling domestic law and undermining judicial independence. Expresses concern over the international context, suggesting the UK is moving away from global democratic oversight and human rights obligations.

Asked whether the hon. Member sees any role for the protection of minority rights under the Human Rights Act and the ECHR, and questioned if there is enough evidence to suggest that trivial human rights claims are a widespread issue. Ferrier raises concerns about the disregard for devolution if the UK Government pushes ahead with human rights legislation reform, highlighting that the Scottish Government opposes such changes and would invite Holyrood to oppose them as well.

Bonnar criticises the Government's proposed reform to the Human Rights Act as an 'unashamed attempted power grab', arguing it undermines public accountability and judicial independence. He highlights that 326 people from his constituency signed the e-petition against the reforms. Steven Bonnar thanked the Minister and asked why his Government was the only one allowed to deliver on manifesto pledges, specifically mentioning Scotland's pledge for an independence referendum as a human rights issue.