House of Commons

• STAGE 1 - First Reading

  This takes place without debate - formal introduction and the short title of the Bill is read out and is followed by an order for the Bill to be printed. This is published as a House of Commons paper.
• STAGE 2 - Second Reading

  This is the opportunity for MPs to debate the main principles of the Bill - takes place 2 weeks after stage 1. The government minister, spokesperson or MP responsible for the Bill opens the second reading. The official opposition spokesperson responds with their views on the Bill, the debate continues with other opposition parties and backend MP's giving their opinions. Commons decide whether the Bill should be given its second reading by voting, meaning it can proceed to the next stage. A second reading can have no debate if MPs agree to its progress.
• STAGE 3 - Committee Stage 1/2

  A detailed examination of the Bill starts within a couple of weeks within 2; this isn’t guaranteed. Bills are dealt with in a Public Bill Committee and takes evidence from experts and interest groups from outside Parliament. Amendments are selected by the chairman of the committee and only members of the committee can vote on amendments during this stage. Those proposed by MPs will be published daily and reprinted as a marshalled list of amendments for each day they discuss the Bill.
• STAGE 3 - Committee Stage 2/2

  Every cause in the Bill is agreed to, changed or removed - this may happen without debate. Every MP is able to take part and the selection and grouping of amendments is decided by the Chairman of Ways & Means. Bills fast tracked through the HoC will receive less consideration. Consolidated Fund Bills don't have a committee stage at all.
• STAGE 4 - Report Stage

  This gives MPs opportunity to further consider amendments to a Bill which has been examined. All MPs may speak and vote and suggest amendments or new clauses they think should be added.
• STAGE 5 - Third Reading

  This immediately follows the Report Stage. The debate is short and limited to whats actually in the Bill and amendments can't be made at this stage. The House decides whether to approve the 3rd reading of the Bill.