Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, Lords Message

The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill was returned to the Commons by the Lords on Wednesday 21 April 2022, so that we could vote on the Lords’ amendments. This is the third time that the Lords have sent these amendments to the Commons, demonstrating the seriousness of their concerns over the risk the Bill poses to democratic principles.

Motion to insist on disagreement with Lords Amendment 73.  This Amendment would remove the Government’s proposed noise trigger, which would allow the police to put conditions on marches or one-person protests that are “too noisy”. “Noise” is too vague a concept by which to judge disruption to society. I voted against the motion, which was passed, Ayes: 300 and Noes: 220.

Motion to insist on disagreement with Lords Amendment 80. This Amendment would remove altogether provisions to break up public assemblies  on the basis of “serious disruption” to organisations or people nearby. Peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right. I voted against the motion, which passed: Ayes:302 and Noes:221.