...But while we will listen to all proposals to improve our constitution in the light of devolution, we do not accept the proposal for English votes for English laws, which would create two classes of Members of Parliament--some entitled to vote on all issues, some invited to vote on only some. We will do nothing to put at risk the Union. I am reminded--[Interruption.] Mr. Speaker: Order. I want hon. Members and right hon. Members to listen to the statement. Obviously, there will be a chance for hon. Members to ask a supplementary question. The Prime Minister: I am reminded of the statement in 1999 by the right hon. Member for Haltemprice and Howden (David Davis), the shadow Home Secretary, who said that English votes for English laws would cause constitutional chaos.
Mr. Speaker: Order. I want hon. Members and right hon. Members to listen to the statement. Obviously, there will be a chance for hon. Members to ask a supplementary question.
The Prime Minister: I am reminded of the statement in 1999 by the right hon. Member for Haltemprice and Howden (David Davis), the shadow Home Secretary, who said that English votes for English laws would cause constitutional chaos.
... Disengagement is too often reflected in low turnout in elections. Britain is unusual in holding elections on weekdays, when people are at work, and the Secretary of State for Justice will announce a consultation on whether there is a case for voting at weekends.
... While balancing the need for public order with the right to public dissent, I think it right--in consultation with the Metropolitan police, Parliament, the Mayor of London, Westminster city council and liberties groups--to change the laws that now restrict the right to demonstrate in Parliament square.
He could have led on terrrrrrrism, but instead we get this for a maiden speech.
If he can be persuaded to drop some of the euro-scepticism and remove the marketista nonsense from the NHS, we might be onto a good thing.
Likely? Probably not. But still - he doesn't seem to have staked out a claim on being actively evil like Blair was.