A discussion document about a possible new law and invite MPs and other to comment upon its suggestions
The White Paper
A proposal for a new law which becomes a bill
The First Reading
When the bill is formally announced in the Commons
The Second Reading
A debate upon the principle of the proposed legislation, a vote takes place at the end of debate
The Committee Stage
Group of MPs from all parties discuss the bill in detail and vote on amendments
The Report Stage
Work of committee is discussed and voted upon in the Commons
The Third Reading
The amended legislation is voted upon and is then sent to the Lords, where the first reading stage to the third reading stage happen. If Lords make amendments bill is sent back to Commons where further votes take place until the bill is accepted
The Royal Assent
The legislation is agreed and signed by the monarch, then it becomes a law
