Harriett Baldwin’s three-year campaign to attempt to solve a complex constitutional issue has taken a further step forward after calling for legislation before the next General Election. The MP quizzed the Government on plans to publish the conclusions of the McKay commission’s investigation of the controversial West Lothian Question which revolves around voting rights for MPs from the four nations of the United Kingdom. A Commission into the issue was convened last year chaired by Sir William McKay – a former Clerk of the House of Commons - and the West Worcestershire MP gave evidence, and a proposed solution, last year. Deputy Leader of the House of Commons Tom Brake confirmed that the Commission is expected to report before the summer recess and the MP called for legislation to be scheduled before the 2015 election. Harriett told the House of Commons that her hope was that: “by the end of this Parliament we will ensure that English-only legislation is voted on with a majority of English MPs.” Harriett added: “I was pleased to be asked to give evidence to the Commission after a long and drawn out campaign in Parliament. “My Private Member’s Bill sought to start this process of properly identifying what legislation affects which region. “I am convinced that the West Lothian Question can be addressed by amending the standing orders of the House and I have made this point in my evidence. “I am a passionate unionist and I support the dogma of ‘Localism’. This debate brings these two issues clearly into focus. “Every time I have this discussion it is clear that there is some public concern and I hope that the McKay Commission will look at all the possible solutions and adopt a workable framework in time for the next election.” FULL TEXT: Harriett Baldwin (West Worcestershire) (Con): When he expects to receive a report from the Commission on the consequences of devolution for the House of Commons. [137523] The Deputy Leader of the House of Commons (Tom Brake): A report from the McKay commission is expected by the end of the current Session of Parliament. Harriett Baldwin: I am delighted to hear that we will get the report in this Session of Parliament. Does the Deputy Leader of the House share my aspiration that by the end of this Parliament we will ensure that English-only legislation is voted on with a majority of English MPs? Tom Brake: I am aware that my hon. Friend is pursuing this matter vigorously—indeed, she made her own submission—but it is right that we wait until we have carefully considered the arguments and options in the report before taking a view. I am sure the House will want to do the same. | Hansard