Resignation Honours - Sephronar

CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD

15th December 2024

The King has been graciously pleased to signify His intention of conferring Honours.

From u/Sephronar:

Companion of the Order of the Timanfya (CT)

u/model-kurimizumi, for services to the Speakership, most notably as Chair of Ways and Means.

Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)

u/model-av, for services to the Speakership, and to politics as Leader of the Scottish National Party.

Member of the Order of Merit (OM)

u/mrsusandothechoosin, for services to the Legislature through their notably stellar work in drafting Bills and Motions to the House of Commons.

Resignation as Speaker of the Model House of Commons

Now that the first term has officially come to an end, I am writing to formally tender my resignation as Speaker of the Model House of Commons, effective upon the election of my successor to the role.

Whilst it is not an easy step for me to take, and I have thoroughly enjoyed being your Speaker these last six months - and even more so being a member of the Quadrumvirate for the last 420 days since October 2023 - I believe that it is the right time to do so. It is never a wise thing to do to outstay your welcome; ideas become stale, people lose confidence, and ultimately it would be wrong to stay when I believe that change at the top of the sim would undoubtedly be a good thing to secure the longevity of our beloved Model House of Commons.

And I do wholeheartedly believe that change at the top of the Sim is needed - we need new ideas, newfound passion, and a different perspective if we are to not just survive but thrive. That is ultimately why I am making this decision with a heavy heart.

The last 420 days have seen a whole host of various changes to the sim - good and bad - most notably of course the reset to MHoC 2.0. While the effectiveness of the reset can be debated, what cannot be is the awe-inspiring community that came together to pour in their passion and ideas in an attempt to shape the future of this sim, and even now I remember fondly that collaboration, though it was certainly a challenge at the time!

So now, I believe that I have more to contribute in other ways, so believe it or not I am looking forward to returning to canon in an attempt to help to revitalise the sim. I’m not sure exactly how or where that effort will take shape, but I am certainly excited about it - and that as well tells me that it is my time to go.

Finally I would like to say thank you to everyone who helped to make my role as Speaker such an enjoyable time - starting with, of course, the members of Speakership across my time that made it so: /u/model-kurimizumi, /u/realbassist, /u/Chi0121, /u/model-ceasar, /u/PoliticoBailey, /u/model-av, /u/lily-irl, /u/DriftersBuddy. I would also like to thank my former Deputy Lord Speakers, most notable: /u/model-kyosanto, /u/Yimir_, /u/tartar-buildup - while the Lords may no longer be a canonical institution, perhaps someday it shall rise again, and your contributions and knowledge were extremely valuable. One last person to thank of course is our Head Mod /u/model-raymondo - thank you for all of your hard work over the last 405 days!

Kind regards,

Sephronar

TD09 - Car Insurance Premiums

Topic debates are now in order.

The question is as follows:

This House has considered e-petitions 644067, 700836, and 700412 relating to car insurance premiums.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on topic.

The House is reminded that, as the motion is drafted in neutral terms, the question will be agreed to automatically unless a member of the House requests that a division takes place.

This debate will end at 10PM GMT on 17 December 2024.

Order! Order!

The Home Secretary, /u/model-willem, will be taking questions from the House.

The Shadow Home Secretary, u/Blocoff, may ask up to six initial questions.

The Unofficial Opposition Spokesperson, u/model-flumsy, may ask up to four initial questions.

Everyone else may ask 2 questions; and are allowed to ask another question in response to each answer they receive. (4 in total)

Questions must revolve around 1 topic and not be made up of multiple questions.

In the first instance, only the Home Secretary may respond to questions asked to them. 'Hear, hear.' and 'Rubbish!' (or similar), are permitted.

This session ends on 17 December 2024 at 10PM.

Initial questions must be asked before 16 December 2024 at 10PM.

B034 - Selective Education Legalisation Bill - Second Reading

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repeal legislative prohibitions on selective educational admissions by merit, wherein such selection will support social mobility, equity, or a better school environment.

BE IT ENACTED by the King's most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—

(1) Repeal of Restrictions on Selective Education

(1) The following amendments are made to the School Standards and Framework Act 1998.

(2) Sections 99 to 103 are repealed in their entirety.

(3) In place of the sections repealed under subsection (2), insert:

“99 General allowance on selection by ability or aptitude.

(1) Selections in accordance with all of the following criteria are for the purposes of section 39(1) of the Education and Inspections Act 2006 permitted forms of selection by ability-

(a) the selection must be made by means of an objective test, assessment or review of previous work or achievement,

(b) the selection must be intended to support social mobility, a more equitable society, a better school environment, or for another appropriate social benefit to both the community served by a school, and the country as a whole.”

(4) Section 105, subsection 2(a) is repealed.

(2) Repeal of restrictions on Admission Interviews

(1) Section 88A of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 is repealed.

(3) Provisions regarding Grammar Schools

(1) In England, any school wishing to implement selective admissions may apply to the Secretary of State to be designated as a “Grammar School”.

(2) The Secretary of State may only refuse an application where they are not satisfied that selective admissions in accordance with Section 99 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 have been applied.

(4) Short Title, Extent and Commencement

(a) This Act can be cited as the Selective Education (Legalisation) Act 2024

(b) This Act shall extend to the entirety of the United Kingdom.

(c) This Act shall commence immediately upon receipt of Royal Assent.

This Bill was submitted by u/ModelSalad OAP on behalf of Reform UK.

Mr. Speaker,

Many remember fondly the days of the Grammar School, a time where we recognised that aspiration is a crucial part of any education, and that access to the best schooling should not be limited only to those wealthy enough to afford private education, but to everyone else.

The tripartite system gave hope to generations of working class Brits, by allowing children into the best schools based on their academic abilities. Now we see too often that as schools do well, house prices in their catchment areas rise to lead to a system where those with the deepest pockets can secure the best education for their kids.

And grammar schools remain deeply popular. Those 163 state funded selective schools are frequently oversubscribed because just as they did in the past, they represent a beacon of hope to those who dream of a better chance in life for their children.

This bill would repeal the moratorium placed on grammar schools introduced by the radical communist Blair government, and allow parents and children to decide what is best for their future schooling, not Whitehall busybodies and Westminster lunatics.

Members may debate and submit amendments to the Bill until Sunday the 15th of December at 10PM GMT.

ORDER! ORDER!

M013 - ICC Arrest Warrants Motion - Division

The Ayes to the Right: 8

The Noes to the Left: 2

The Ayes have it! The Ayes have it! The Motion shall be sent to the Government for consideration!

Abstentions: 1

Did not vote: 25

Turnout: 30.56%

UNLOCK!

Order!

Debate on motions.

#Inheritance (Families) Motion

The House recognises that:

(1) Inheritance tax as it currently exists in the United Kingdom is not fit for purpose.

(2) The various exemptions and seven year rule lead to it being complicated and inefficient, resulting in unfair disparities in payment.

(3) Families should not be penalised for passing down residences, land, businesses, or heirlooms through generations.

(4) Family businesses such as farms are a vital part of the United Kingdom's economy and self-sufficiency.

The House declares that:

(5) Fixed assets bequeathed to family members should not be taxed, unless and until they are later traded or sold.

(6) Inheritance tax as it currently exists should be effectively abolished, and replaced with forms of Capital Gains Tax.

Submitted by /u/mrsusandothechoosin on behalf of Reform UK, and sponsored by /u/Yimir_

Mister Speaker,

The recent topic debate on the agricultural exemption for inheritance tax has exposed the ugly reality of our inheritance tax - which really is an estate tax.

One member even went as far as to suggest that it was fair to tax the family farm, because if they really wanted to pass it on tax free, they could take advantage of the seven year rule.

You should not have to have a lawyer's understanding of inheritance law, or be lucky enough to avoid an unexpected death, in order to pass on the family farm - one of the bedrocks of british society and our economy.

Our tax system is unfair. It's also inefficient.

We should not be penalising families for passing on their homes and heirlooms down the generations - whilst those with offshore trusts pay nothing. I propose that we scrap our outdated and unpopular system with a system of Capital Gains Tax.

I hope the house will see the sense in this, and I welcome their comments.

Debate on this motion will end with the close of business at 10pm GMT on the 13th of December.

TD08 - Sale and Use of Fireworks

Order!

Topic debates.

The question is as follows:

That this House has considered e-petition 700013 relating to the sale and use of fireworks.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on topic.

The House is reminded that, as the motion is drafted in neutral terms, the question will be agreed to automatically unless a member of the House requests that a division takes place.

Debate on this motion will end with the close of business at 10pm GMT on the 13th of December.

ORDER! ORDER!

M008 - Coinage (Shillings) Motion - Division

The Ayes to the Right: 0

The Noes to the Left: 13

The Noes have it! The Noes have it! The Motion shall be thrown out!

Abstentions: 0

Did not vote: 23

Turnout: 36.11%

M011 - Motion on the Prime Minister's statement regarding President Trump - Division

The Ayes to the Right: 5

The Noes to the Left: 11

The Noes have it! The Noes have it! The Motion shall be thrown out!

Abstentions: 0

Did not vote: 20

Turnout: 44.44%

UNLOCK!

TD07 - Compensation for Women Affected by Increases to the State Pension Age

Topic debates are now in order.

The question is as follows:

That this House has considered e-petition 700765 relating to compensation for women affected by increases to the State Pension Age.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on topic.

The House is reminded that, as the motion is drafted in neutral terms, the question will be agreed to automatically unless a member of the House requests that a division takes place.

This debate will end at 10PM GMT on 9 December 2024.

Order, order!

Prime Minister's Questions are now in order!

The Prime Minister, /u/Inadorable, will be taking questions from the House.

The Leader of the Opposition, /u/Blue-EG, may ask 6 initial questions.

Leaders of other opposition parties, /u/model-ceasar and /u/XVillan, may ask 4 initial questions.

Everyone else may ask 2 questions; and are allowed to ask another question in response to each answer they receive. (4 in total)

Questions must revolve around 1 topic and not be made up of multiple questions.

In the first instance, only the Prime Minister may respond to questions asked to them. 'Hear, hear.' and 'Rubbish!' (or similar), are permitted.

Members may ask initial questions until 10PM GMT on 8 December 2024.

The session will end at 10PM GMT on 9 December 2024.

TD06 - Illegal Migration

Topic debates are now in order.

The question is as follows:

That this House has considered illegal migration to the United Kingdom.

This Topic Debate was submitted by /u/Meneerduif on behalf of the Conservative and Unionist Party.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on topic.

The House is reminded that Topic Debates will now be agreed to automatically unless a member of the House requests that a division takes place.

This debate will end at 10PM GMT on Saturday 7th December 2024.

TD05 - Farming Inheritance Tax Relief

Topic debates are now in order.

The question is as follows:

That this House has considered e-petition 700138 relating to Inheritance Tax relief available within the farming sector.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on topic.

The House is reminded that, as the motion is drafted in neutral terms, the question will be agreed to automatically unless a member of the House requests that a division takes place.

This debate will end at 10PM GMT on Thursday 5th December 2024.

M013 - ICC Arrest Warrants Motion - Reading

This House recognises that:

(1) On 21 November 2024, the Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court issued warrants of arrest for Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant on the grounds of their culpability in crimes against humanity and war crimes committed.

(2) The Chamber found reasonable grounds to believe that Netanyahu and Gallant bore criminal responsibility for the war crime of starvation, and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts.

(3) The Chamber found that Netanyahu and Gallant, among other war crimes and crimes against humanity, acted to intentionally limit or prevent medical supplies from entering Gaza, thus inflicting great suffering by means of inhumane acts by forcing doctors to operate in unsafe conditions and causing persons extreme pain or suffering.

(4) The United Kingdom is a state party to the International Criminal Court.

(5) On 21 November 2024, Prime Minister Inadorable released a statement affirming that the United Kingdom was "legally, diplomatically and above all morally required" to enforce the warrants of arrest placed against Netanyahu and Gallant, noting the binding status of the Chamber's decision.

The House thus agrees that:

(1) Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant are guilty of crimes against humanity and war crimes.

(2) The government of the United Kingdom must enforce any and all arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court, including those issued against Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant.

(3) The war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by the state of Israel and its leaders in Palestine and Gaza must be recognised and condemned in the strongest terms.

This motion was written by /u/alisonhearts on behalf of the Workers Party GB.

Opening Speech

Mr Speaker,

The world has watched as Israel has committed genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza. We have watched as they used the October 7 attacks as an excuse to declare all Palestinians collectively guilty of the crimes committed by Hamas, and engaged in the wanton slaughter of civilians, systematic targeting of journalists, and disgraceful attacks against hospitals which strike at the very heart of human decency.

The International Criminal Court has had the courage which this government could not muster. In May they issued an application for arrest warrants against Israeli leaders Benjamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant, and now they have finally issued warrants of arrests for these merchants of slaughter, declaring that it is probable that they have committed crimes against humanity and war crimes against Gaza and the people of Palestine.

I applaud the government for declaring that they will follow international law and enforce these arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant. It is a low bar, but the outgoing Biden administration in the United States of America is doing its best to trip over it and fall face flat in their defence of genocidaires.

This house must, in the name of human decency, affirm that decision, and once and for all condemn the war crimes and crimes against humanity that the state of Israel and its leaders have committed against the Palestinian people.

There is more that this government can and must do to stop Israel's campaign of genocide and terror in Palestine. But in this moment, I call upon this House to come together and declare what the world already knows. Netanyahu and Gallant are guilty of genocide, and it is far beyond time that they and the government they lead be held responsible for their criminal, reprehensible actions.

Members may debate and submit amendments to the Motion until Tuesday the 3rd of December at 10PM GMT.

ORDER! ORDER!

M010 - Motion to Adopt the Principles of the EU AI Act - Final Division

The Ayes to the Right: 13

The Noes to the Left: 1

The Ayes have it! The Ayes have it! The Motion shall be sent to the Government!

Abstentions: 0

Did not vote: 22

Turnout: 38.89%

UNLOCK!

Order!

Topic debates are now in order.

The question is as follows:

That this House has considered e-petition 700086 relating to a minimum age for the use of social media.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on topic.

The House is reminded that, as the motion is drafted in neutral terms, the question will be agreed to automatically unless a member of the House requests that a division takes place.

This debate will end at 10PM GMT on 1 December 2024.

Order, order!

Foreign Secretary Questions are now in order!

The Foreign Secretary, /u/LeftyWalrus, will be taking questions from the House.

The Shadow Foreign Secretary, /u/Meneerduif, may ask 6 initial questions.

Spokespeople for foreign affairs of other opposition parties, /u/Leafy_Emerald, may ask 4 initial questions.

Everyone else may ask 2 questions; and are allowed to ask another question in response to each answer they receive. (4 in total)

Questions must revolve around 1 topic and not be made up of multiple questions.

In the first instance, only the Foreign Secretary may respond to questions asked to them. 'Hear, hear.' and 'Rubbish!' (or similar), are permitted.

Members may ask initial questions until 10PM GMT on 30 November 2024.

The session will end at 10PM GMT on 1 December 2024.

CENTRAL CHANCERY OF THE ORDERS OF KNIGHTHOOD

25th November 2024

The King has been graciously pleased to signify His intention of conferring Honours.

From u/model-willem:

Member of the Order of Merit (OM)

u/model-mili, for services to the Electoral Commission.

Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)

u/lily-irl, for services to the Electoral Commission.

Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)

u/Inadorable, for services to the Country as Prime Minister.

From u/model-mili:

Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)

u/Lady_Aya, for services to MHoC.

Member of the Order of Merit (OM)

u/model-willem, for services to MHoC.

Companion of the Order of the Timanfya (CT)

u/model-legs, for services to MHoC.

From u/Muffin5136:

Companion of the Order of the Timanfya (CT)

u/model-willem, for services to MHoC.

Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)

u/model-legs, for services to Events.

Member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO)

u/LightningMinion, for services to the Press.

M011 - Motion on the Prime Minister's statement regarding President Trump - Reading

This House Recognises:

(1) That, on November 5th 2024, President Trump was democratically elected president of the United States, winning both a majority of electoral votes and a plurality of the popular vote.

(2) That the UK and USA have a special relationship with close social, diplomatic, military and economic ties.

(3) That the recent actions by the Prime Minister of calling President Trump a “fascist” put a strain on this relationship.

This House Urges:

(1) That the Prime Minister immediately retracts any statement or mention she made where she calls President Trump a fascist and refrains from doing so in the future.

(2) That the Prime Minister and Secretary of State for foreign, commonwealth and development affairs take immediate action through diplomatic means to ensure the continuation of the special relationship between the UK and USA.

This Motion was submitted by /u/meneerduif on behalf of the Conservative and Unionist Party.

Opening Speech:

Speaker,

I wish to bring forward this Motion that concerns the special relationship between the UK and the United States. On November 5th, 2024, President Trump was democratically elected, securing both the electoral and popular vote. The UK and the USA have a long-standing and special relationship, grounded in shared values and cooperation.

However, recent comments by the Prime Minister, calling President Trump a “fascist”, have put this relationship at risk. Such divisive language threatens to undermine the close ties between our two nations. I urge the House to make the Prime Minister immediately retract these remarks and refrain from making similar statements, ensuring the continued strength of our alliance with the USA.

Members may debate and submit amendments to the Motion until Friday the 29th of November at 10PM GMT.

ORDER! ORDER!

TD03 - Remembrance Sunday - Division

The Ayes to the Right: 14

The Noes to the Left: 1

The Ayes have it! The Ayes have it! The Question has been answered!

Abstentions: 1

Did not vote: 18

Turnout: 47.06%

M008 - Coinage (Shillings) Motion - Amendment Division

AMENDMENT 1 (A01) - /u/model-av

The Ayes to the Right: 7

The Noes to the Left: 5

The Ayes have it! The Ayes have it! The Amendment shall be applied to the Bill!

Abstentions: 3

Did not vote: 19

Turnout: 44.12%

AMENDMENT 2 (A02) - /u/mrsusandothechoosin

The Ayes to the Right: 8

The Noes to the Left: 4

The Ayes have it! The Ayes have it! The Amendment shall be applied to the Motion!

Abstentions: 3

Did not vote: 19

Turnout: 44.12%

UNLOCK!

ORDER! ORDER!

B030 - Marriage (First Cousins) Bill - Final Division

The Ayes to the Right: 0

The Noes to the Left: 12

The Noes have it! The Noes have it! The Bill shall be thrown out!

Abstentions: 5

Did not vote: 19

Turnout: 47.22%

B029 - Loot Box Regulation Bill - Final Division

The Ayes to the Right: 13

The Noes to the Left: 0

The Ayes have it! The Ayes have it! The Bill shall be sent for Royal Assent!

Abstentions: 1

Did not vote: 22

Turnout: 38.89%

M009 - Motion to Strengthen Sex-Based Safeguarding Protections - Final Division

The Ayes to the Right: 0

The Noes to the Left: 14

The Noes have it! The Noes have it! The Motion shall be thrown out!

Abstentions: 2

Did not vote: 18

Turnout: 47.06%

UNLOCK!

Questions to Government Ministers!

Government Ministers will be taking questions from the House.

Shadow Ministers may ask up to six initial questions and six follow up questions to the response they receive. (12 total)

Official Spokespeople may ask up to four initial questions and four follow up questions to the response they receive. (Eight total)

All other members and speakers may ask up to two initial questions and two follow up questions to the response they receive. (Four total)

Holders of more than one portfolio will only receive one quota for all portfolios and must decide how to allocate their questions between them.

Questions must revolve around 1 topic and not be made up of multiple questions.

In the first instance, only a Government minister may respond to questions asked to them. 'Hear, hear.' and 'Rubbish!' (or similar), are permitted.

This session ends on 23rd November 2024 at 10pm GMT. No initial questions may be asked after 22nd November 2024 at 10pm GMT.

M010 - Motion to Adopt the Principles of the EU AI Act - Main Reading

This House Recognises that:

(1) The Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) was passed by the European Parliament in March 2024, approved by the EU Council in May 2024, and entered into force on August 1, 2024.

(2) The EU AI seeks to regulate the growing scope of Artificial Intelligence, including designating specific risk types for AI.

(3) The provisions of the Act will begin to be enforced over the next three years, with businesses wishing to conduct business within the EU being required to comply with these provisions.

(4) This will impact UK businesses on a significant scale where doing business in the EU.

(5) It will be easier for UK business to follow the same regulations in the UK as in the EU.

This House Therefore Urges that:

(1) The principles of the EU AI Act are adopted by the UK Parliament, whether through a direct copy or through introducing legislation that would have the same effect.

This Motion was written by u/Muffin5136,OAP as a Private Members Motion.

Opening Speech:

Speaker,

I wish to bring my first motion for this House's consideration in the whole, to encourage what should hopefully result in a crossparty understanding and co-operation to introduce regulations around AI, the most significant technology we have seen introduced in recent years, which poses both great opportunities and great risks for business and people alike.

It has been seen that the European Union has introduced a grand piece of legislation to regulate this technology, and should be seen as the gold standard for regulation in this area. As such, I am of the simple belief that we should be adopting identical legislation in the UK, to make it easier for British businesses to comply with just one set of regulations for doing business in the UK and EU, rather than having to grapple with unnecessary red tape or conflicting regulations. It would also make it a far easier transition for British businesses should we reverse the grand mistake that was Brexit.

I urge the House to support this motion, and am happy to take further questions on this matter.

Members may debate and submit amendments to the Bill until Tuesday the 19th of November at 10PM GMT.

B033 - NHS Digital Infrastructure and Patient Access Bill - has been withdrawn at the request of the Author.

Order!

Consideration of amendments.

#Coinage (Shillings) Motion

The House recognises that:

(1) The Shilling as a unit of coinage has a centuries long history, and continued legacy in many countries.

(2) Many historical contracts refer to Shillings as the primary method of payment.

(3) The Shilling is an important symbol of culture for many Britons.

The House urges that:

(4) The 5 pence coin now also be minted to read "One Shilling".

(5) The 10 pence coin now also be minted to read "Two Shillings".

(6) The 20 pence coin now also be minted to read "Four Shillings".

(7) The 50 pence coin now also be minted to read "Ten Shillings".

(8) That His Majesty's Government support references to Shillings in public life.

No opening speech was provided.

Submitted by /u/mrsusandothechoosin on behalf of Reform UK

Amendments

A01 (/u/model-av, Scottish National Party)

After line (3), insert:

(4) Before 1707, Scotland also had its own system of currency with a long and storied history.

Amend "One Shilling" to read "One Shilling, One Merk."

Amend "Two Shillings" to read "Two Shillings, Two Merks."

Amend "Four Shillings" to read "Four Shillings, One Dollar."

Amend "Ten Shillings" to read "Ten Shillings, One Half-Pistole."

After "Shillings" in line (8), insert "and historic Scottish currency".

EN: added Scottish names in addition to the English ones

A02 (/u/mrsusandothechoosin, Reform UK)

Replace lines (4) through to (7) with:

(4) The five pence coin be minted to contain the text "One Shilling" in addition to "Five Pence".

(5) The ten pence coin be minted to contain the text "Two Shillings" in addition to "Ten Pence".

(6) The twenty pence coin be minted to contain the text "Four Shillings" in addition to "Twenty Pence".

(7) The fifty pence coin be minted to contain the text "Ten Shillings" in addition to "Fifty Pence".

Debate on these amendments will end with the close of business at 10pm GMT on the 15th of November.

Order, order!

Prime Minister's Questions are now in order!

The Prime Minister, /u/Inadorable, will be taking questions from the House.

The Leader of the Opposition, /u/Blue-EG, may ask 6 initial questions.

Leaders of other opposition parties, /u/model-ceasar and /u/XVillan, may ask 4 initial questions.

Everyone else may ask 2 questions; and are allowed to ask another question in response to each answer they receive. (4 in total)

Questions must revolve around 1 topic and not be made up of multiple questions.

In the first instance, only the Prime Minister may respond to questions asked to them. 'Hear, hear.' and 'Rubbish!' (or similar), are permitted.

Members may ask initial questions until the close of business at 10pm GMT on the 15th of November 2024.

The session will end with the close of business at 10pm GMT on the 16th of November 2024.

Order!

Topic debates are now in order.

The question is as follows:

That this House has considered Remembrance Sunday and acts of remembrance.

Members are reminded to stay wholly on-topic.

This debate will end with the close of business at 10pm GMT on the 15th of November, after which there shall be a division on the question.

ORDER! ORDER!

B030 - Marriage (First Cousins) Bill - Motion to Recommit Division

The Ayes to the Right: 0

The Noes to the Left: 11

The Noes have it! The Noes have it! The Bill shall proceed to Final Division as scheduled!

Abstentions: 7

Did not vote: 15

Turnout: 54.55%

UNLOCK!

B033 - NHS Digital Infrastructure and Patient Access Bill - 2nd Reading

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make provision for NHS digital infrastructure, cloud-based medical records, patient access systems, and healthcare information security standards; to amend the Health and Social Care Act 2012, the National Health Service Act 2006, and the National Health Service (Regional Health Authorities) Act 2024; and for connected purposes.

BE IT ENACTED by the King's most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—

Part 1: Digital Infrastructure and Standards

Section 1 – Interpretation

(1) For the purposes of this Act, the following definitions apply—

(a) "NHS England" means a body corporate established under section 1H of the National Health Service Act 2006 (as amended);

(b) "relevant NHS body" means—

(i) a Regional Health Authority established under section 1 of the National Health Service (Regional Health Authorities) Act 2024;

(ii) a Regional Health Board established under section 9 of the National Health Service (Regional Health Authorities) Act 2024;

(iii) an NHS foundation trust within the meaning of section 30 of the National Health Service Act 2006;

(c) "digital infrastructure" means—

(i) information technology systems as prescribed;

(ii) computer hardware meeting such requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(iii) computer software meeting such requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(iv) network infrastructure meeting such requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(d) "cloud-based system" means a system whereby computing services are delivered via the Internet in such manner as may be prescribed.

Section 2 – Amendments to information standards

(1) Section 250 of the Health and Social Care Act 2012 (information standards) is amended in accordance with subsections (2) to (5).

(2) After subsection (2B), insert—

"(2C) Information standards must specify requirements for digital infrastructure including—

(i) technical specifications for cloud-based medical records systems;

(ii) requirements for hardware and software systems;

(iii) specifications for network infrastructure;

(iv) such requirements for disaster recovery as may be prescribed;

(v) standards for interoperability between Regional Health Authorities as specified in Schedule 1."

(3) After subsection (2C), insert—

"(2D) Information standards relating to data security shall include—

(i) specifications for encryption of data at rest and in transit;

(ii) requirements for access control mechanisms;

(iii) specifications for audit logging;

(iv) such other security requirements as may be prescribed."

Section 3 – General duties in respect of digital infrastructure

(1) Subject to subsection (2), NHS England shall establish and maintain—

(a) technical standards for—

(i) cloud-based medical records systems;

(ii) patient access interfaces;

(iii) data security systems;

(b) such other standards as may be prescribed.

(2) The technical standards established under subsection (1) must ensure—

(a) compatibility between Regional Health Authorities;

(b) compliance with—

(i) data protection legislation;

(ii) such other legislation as may be prescribed;

(c) system resilience as specified in Schedule 1;

(d) disaster recovery capabilities meeting such requirements as may be prescribed.

Section 4 – Requirements for records systems

(1) For the purposes of this Act, a cloud-based medical records system established under section 3(1) must—

(a) maintain patient records in such format as may be prescribed;

(b) enable access by authorised healthcare professionals within Regional Health Authorities in accordance with—

(i) such security protocols as may be specified in regulations;

(ii) such other requirements as may be prescribed;

(c) facilitate information sharing between Regional Health Authorities subject to—

(i) data protection requirements;

(ii) patient consent protocols as specified in Schedule 2;

(d) maintain audit trails of all access and modifications in such manner as may be prescribed.

(2) The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision about—

(a) the manner in which patient records are to be maintained;

(b) authorisation protocols for healthcare professionals;

(c) information sharing requirements between Regional Health Authorities;

(d) such other matters as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

Part 2: Implementation and NHS England's Duties

Section 5 – Implementation duties

(1) NHS England shall—

(a) establish a programme for implementing the digital infrastructure system;

(b) publish an implementation timetable within such period as may be prescribed;

(c) ensure the implementation programme includes such matters as are specified in Schedule 3.

(2) The implementation programme shall be completed—

(a) by Regional Health Authorities by such date as may be prescribed;

(b) by NHS foundation trusts by such date as may be prescribed;

(c) subject to such conditions as may be specified in regulations.

Section 6 – General duties of NHS England

(1) NHS England shall—

(a) establish and maintain the digital infrastructure system in accordance with—

(i) such requirements as may be prescribed;

(ii) such standards as are specified in Schedule 1;

(b) provide technical support to Regional Health Authorities in such manner as may be prescribed;

(c) monitor system performance and compliance in accordance with such requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(d) ensure security measures are maintained in accordance with Schedule 2.

(2) NHS England shall publish—

(a) such reports during implementation as may be prescribed;

(b) annual performance reports containing such information as may be specified in regulations;

(c) such other information as the Secretary of State may by direction require.

Section 7 – Regional implementation and operational requirements

(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), each Regional Health Authority shall—

(a) implement and maintain digital infrastructure systems in accordance with standards specified by NHS England;

(b) ensure systems operate continuously, save for—

(i) such planned maintenance as may be prescribed;

(ii) such other circumstances as may be specified in regulations;

(c) maintain such level of availability as may be prescribed;

(d) implement backup systems meeting such requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(e) provide disaster recovery capabilities in accordance with Schedule 1.

(2) Regional Health Authorities shall make such arrangements as they consider appropriate to ensure compliance with subsection (1).

(3) The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision about—

(a) minimum operational standards for Regional Health Authorities;

(b) maintenance requirements;

(c) backup procedures;

(d) such other matters as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

Part 3: Patient Access and Data Protection

Section 8 – Digital access requirements

(1) NHS England shall establish and maintain a unified patient access system that—

(a) provides secure online access to personal health records across all Regional Health Authorities in accordance with—

(i) such security requirements as may be prescribed;

(ii) such other requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(b) enables patients to—

(i) make appointments within their Regional Health Authority in such manner as may be prescribed;

(ii) request prescriptions subject to such conditions as may be specified;

(iii) access test results from any Regional Health Authority in accordance with such protocols as may be prescribed;

(iv) view vaccination records subject to such conditions as may be specified;

(v) update personal information in such manner as may be prescribed.

(2) The patient access system shall—

(a) be accessible via such platforms as may be specified in regulations;

(b) comply with—

(i) accessibility regulations made under section 14 of the Equality Act 2010;

(ii) such other requirements as may be prescribed;

(c) provide alternative access arrangements for patients unable to use digital services in such manner as may be specified in regulations;

(d) enable cross-regional access to patient records when care is provided by different Regional Health Authorities.

Section 9 – Identity verification and regional access

(1) Subject to subsection (2), NHS England shall establish a unified identity verification system that—

(a) confirms the identity of persons seeking access to the system across all Regional Health Authorities in accordance with such requirements as may be prescribed;

(b) implements multi-factor authentication meeting such standards as may be specified in regulations;

(c) maintains security standards in accordance with Schedule 2;

(d) enables secure access to patient records across Regional Health Authority boundaries.

Section 10 – Data protection requirements

(1) All processing of personal data under this Act shall—

(a) comply with—

(i) the UK General Data Protection Regulation;

(ii) the Data Protection Act 2018;

(iii) such other enactments relating to data protection as may be prescribed;

(b) conform to NHS data security standards as specified in Schedule 2;

(c) maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with—

(i) the common law duty of confidentiality;

(ii) such other requirements as may be prescribed.

(2) NHS England shall ensure—

(a) encryption of patient data in accordance with—

(i) such standards as may be specified in regulations;

(ii) such other requirements as may be prescribed;

(b) secure storage of all system data meeting such requirements as may be specified;

(c) implementation of access controls across Regional Health Authorities in accordance with Schedule 2;

(d) maintenance of comprehensive audit trails containing such information as may be prescribed;

(e) secure mechanisms for cross-regional data sharing.

Section 11 – Data breach notification and regional responsibilities

(1) In the event of a personal data breach, the relevant Regional Health Authority and NHS England shall—

(a) notify—

(i) the Information Commissioner;

(ii) affected data subjects;

(iii) any other affected Regional Health Authorities;

(iv) such other persons as may be prescribed;

(b) do so within such period as may be specified in regulations.

(2) A notification under subsection (1) shall contain—

(a) such information about the breach as may be prescribed;

(b) details of any cross-regional impact;

(c) such other information as may be specified in regulations.

Part 4: Funding and Resource Allocation

Section 12 – Funding requirements

(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), the Secretary of State shall make such provision as the Secretary of State considers appropriate—

(a) for the development and implementation of the unified digital infrastructure system;

(b) for the maintenance and support of such system across Regional Health Authorities;

(c) for such training programmes as may be prescribed;

(d) for such other purposes as may be specified in regulations.

(2) NHS England shall—

(a) publish annual budgetary requirements for the national digital infrastructure containing—

(i) such information as may be prescribed;

(ii) allocation frameworks for Regional Health Authorities;

(iii) such other matters as may be specified in regulations;

(b) maintain financial records in accordance with—

(i) such requirements as may be prescribed;

(ii) such accounting standards as may be specified;

(c) ensure value for money in procurement in accordance with such requirements as may be prescribed;

(d) report annually on expenditure in such manner as may be specified in regulations.

(3) Each Regional Health Authority shall—

(a) maintain specific digital infrastructure budgets;

(b) report on expenditure to NHS England;

(c) comply with such financial controls as may be prescribed.

Section 13 – Resource allocation to Regional Health Authorities

(1) NHS England shall allocate digital infrastructure resources to Regional Health Authorities for—

(a) such regional infrastructure requirements as may be prescribed;

(b) such staff training within each region as may be specified in regulations;

(c) such technical support services as may be prescribed;

(d) such other purposes as may be specified in regulations.

(2) Resources allocated under subsection (1) shall be—

(a) distributed according to regional population size and needs;

(b) provided in such manner as may be prescribed;

(c) subject to such conditions as may be specified in regulations.

Section 14 – Procurement requirements

(1) Subject to subsections (2) and (3), NHS England shall ensure that procurement of digital infrastructure—

(a) complies with—

(i) the Public Contracts Regulations 2015;

(ii) such other procurement legislation as may be prescribed;

(b) maintains competitive tendering processes in accordance with such requirements as may be specified in regulations;

(c) includes service level agreements containing—

(i) provisions for Regional Health Authority access and support;

(ii) such other requirements as may be specified;

(d) enables economies of scale through national procurement where appropriate.

Section 15 – Contract management

(1) NHS England shall—

(a) maintain a central register of contracts containing—

(i) national infrastructure contracts;

(ii) Regional Health Authority-specific arrangements;

(iii) such other information as may be prescribed;

(b) monitor contract performance across Regional Health Authorities in accordance with such requirements as may be specified;

(c) ensure compliance with service level agreements in such manner as may be prescribed;

(d) coordinate procurement activities between Regional Health Authorities where appropriate.

(2) Regional Health Authorities shall—

(a) comply with national procurement frameworks;

(b) maintain regional contract registers;

(c) report contract performance to NHS England in such manner as may be prescribed.

(3) Where a contractor fails to meet requirements specified under subsection (1), NHS England shall—

(a) take such steps as may be prescribed;

(b) impose such penalties as may be specified in regulations;

(c) make such other arrangements as may be appropriate;

(d) ensure continuity of service across affected Regional Health Authorities.

Part 5: Oversight and Enforcement

Section 16 – Regional oversight framework

(1) NHS England shall establish an oversight framework including—

(a) performance metrics for digital infrastructure across Regional Health Authorities as specified in Schedule 1;

(b) compliance monitoring systems meeting such requirements as may be prescribed;

(c) audit requirements applicable to each Regional Health Authority in accordance with such standards as may be specified;

(d) reporting mechanisms containing such provisions as may be prescribed;

(e) mechanisms for cross-regional performance assessment.

(2) The oversight framework shall include monitoring of—

(a) system availability and performance in each Regional Health Authority in accordance with—

(i) such metrics as may be prescribed;

(ii) such other requirements as may be specified;

(b) security incidents subject to such reporting requirements as may be prescribed;

(c) data breaches in accordance with section 11;

(d) cross-regional system integration;

(e) such other matters as may be specified in regulations.

Section 17 – Regional reporting requirements

(1) Each Regional Health Authority shall submit to NHS England—

(a) quarterly performance reports containing—

(i) such information as may be prescribed;

(ii) details of regional system performance;

(iii) such other matters as may be specified;

(b) annual comprehensive reviews in such form as may be prescribed;

(c) immediate notifications of significant incidents in accordance with such requirements as may be specified.

Section 18 – Enforcement powers

(1) Where a Regional Health Authority fails to comply with any provision of this Act, NHS England may—

(a) issue an enforcement notice requiring such steps to be taken as may be specified in the notice;

(b) direct the relevant Regional Health Board to take such remedial action as may be prescribed;

(c) implement such direct support measures as may be specified in regulations;

(d) take such other action as may be specified in regulations.

(2) An enforcement notice under subsection (1)(a) shall—

(a) specify the breach in such manner as may be prescribed;

(b) set out—

(i) required remedial action;

(ii) timeframes for compliance;

(iii) implications for cross-regional services;

(iv) such other matters as may be specified in regulations;

(c) state the consequences of non-compliance.

(3) The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision about—

(a) the procedure to be followed in relation to enforcement notices;

(b) appeals against enforcement notices by Regional Health Authorities;

(c) coordination of enforcement actions across regions;

(d) such other matters relating to enforcement as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

Section 19 – Regional penalties

(1) Where a Regional Health Authority fails to comply with an enforcement notice issued under section 18, NHS England may—

(a) impose a monetary penalty of such amount as may be prescribed;

(b) recommend to the Secretary of State such changes to the Regional Health Board as may be appropriate;

(c) take such other enforcement action as may be specified in regulations.

Part 6: Transitional Provisions

Section 20 – Transitional arrangements for Regional Health Authorities

(1) For the purposes of this Act, the transition period is—

(a) for Regional Health Authorities, the period of 36 months beginning with the day on which this section comes into force;

(b) for NHS foundation trusts, the period of 48 months beginning with the day on which this section comes into force;

(c) such other period as may be prescribed.

(2) During the transition period, Regional Health Authorities shall—

(a) maintain existing digital systems until such time as may be specified in regulations;

(b) ensure continuity of service across their regions in accordance with such requirements as may be prescribed;

(c) implement data migration plans meeting such standards as may be specified;

(d) complete such staff training programmes as may be prescribed;

(e) ensure cross-regional system compatibility.

Section 21 – Legacy systems within Regional Health Authorities

(1) NHS England shall—

(a) publish guidance about—

(i) the management of legacy systems within Regional Health Authorities;

(ii) regional data migration procedures;

(iii) system decommissioning requirements;

(iv) preservation of regional service continuity;

(b) do so within such period as may be prescribed.

Section 22 – Regulations and orders

(1) Any power of the Secretary of State to make regulations under this Act shall be exercisable by statutory instrument.

(2) A statutory instrument containing regulations under this Act shall not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

(3) Regulations under this Act may—

(a) make different provision for different Regional Health Authorities;

(b) make transitional, transitory or saving provision;

(c) make incidental, supplementary or consequential provision;

(d) apply, with or without modification, any enactment.

Section 23 – Directions

(1) The Secretary of State may give directions to NHS England and Regional Health Authorities about the exercise of any of their functions under this Act.

(2) NHS England and Regional Health Authorities shall comply with any directions given under subsection (1).

(3) Directions under this section shall be—

(a) given in writing;

(b) published in such manner as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.

Section 24 – Extent, commencement and short title

(1) This Act extends to England.

(2) This Act comes into force on such day as the Secretary of State may by regulations appoint.

(3) Different days may be appointed for different purposes.

(4) This Act may be cited as the NHS Digital Infrastructure and Patient Access Act 2024.

Schedules

Schedule 1: Technical Standards and System Requirements

Part 1 – Core Technical Standards

(1) The digital infrastructure system must meet the following technical standards—

(a) system availability of 99.9% measured monthly, excluding planned maintenance;

(b) maximum response time of 3 seconds for routine operations;

(c) data backup frequency of not less than every 24 hours;

(d) recovery time objective of 4 hours for critical systems.

(2) The system must implement the following security measures—

(a) encryption of data in transit using TLS 1.3 or higher;

(b) encryption of data at rest using AES-256 or equivalent;

(c) multi-factor authentication for all system access;

(d) role-based access control.

Part 2 – Interoperability Requirements

(3) Systems must support the following interoperability standards—

(a) HL7 FHIR Release 4 or higher for clinical data exchange;

(b) SNOMED CT for clinical terminology;

(c) DICOM for medical imaging;

(d) such other standards as may be specified by NHS England.

Schedule 2: Security and Data Protection Requirements

Part 1 – Security Standards

(1) The following security controls must be implemented—

(a) identity and access management systems;

(b) intrusion detection and prevention systems;

(c) security information and event management (SIEM) systems;

(d) vulnerability management processes.

Schedule 3: Implementation Requirements

Part 1 - Implementation Planning

(1) Each Regional Health Authority must prepare an implementation plan including—

(a) detailed project timeline;

(b) resource allocation;

(c) risk assessment and mitigation strategies;

(d) staff training programme;

(e) system testing procedures.

(2) The implementation plan must address—

(a) data migration from legacy systems;

(b) maintenance of service continuity;

(c) staff training and support;

(d) patient communication and engagement.

Part 2 – Testing Requirements

(3) Before deployment, systems must undergo—

(a) security testing, including—

(i) penetration testing;

(ii) vulnerability assessment;

(iii) security control validation;

(b) performance testing, including—

(i) load testing;

(ii) stress testing;

(iii) failover testing;

(c) user acceptance testing;

(d) integration testing.

Part 3 – Training Requirements

(4) Staff training must include—

(a) system operation and functionality;

(b) security awareness and procedures;

(c) data protection requirements;

(d) incident reporting and handling.

(5) Training must be—

(a) role-specific;

(b) regularly updated;

(c) mandatory for all users;

(d) documented and tracked.

Schedule 4: Performance Monitoring and Reporting

Part 1 – System Performance Metrics

(1) The following metrics must be monitored and reported—

(a) system availability;

(b) response times;

(c) error rates;

(d) user satisfaction;

(e) security incidents;

(f) data breaches.

(2) Performance reports must include—

(a) monthly system performance statistics;

(b) quarterly trend analysis;

(c) annual comprehensive review;

(d) incident reports and resolutions.

Part 2 – Audit Requirements

(3) Regular audits must examine—

(a) system security controls;

(b) access controls and authentication;

(c) data protection compliance;

(d) backup and recovery procedures.

(4) Audit reports must—

(a) identify any deficiencies;

(b) recommend corrective actions;

(c) track resolution of previous findings;

(d) be submitted to NHS England.

Schedule 5: Transitional Arrangements

Part 1 – Legacy System Management

(1) During the transition period, Regional Health Authorities must—

(a) maintain existing systems until migration is complete;

(b) ensure data consistency between systems;

(c) provide parallel access where necessary;

(d) maintain security controls on all systems.

(2) Data migration must—

(a) preserve data integrity;

(b) maintain audit trails;

(c) validate migrated data;

(d) comply with data protection requirements.

Schedule 6: Procurement and Contract Requirements

Part 1 – Procurement Standards

(1) Procurement processes must—

(a) comply with public procurement regulations;

(b) ensure fair competition;

(c) demonstrate value for money;

(d) include security and performance requirements.

(2) Technical requirements must specify—

(a) system functionality;

(b) performance standards;

(c) security requirements;

(d) interoperability standards;

(e) support and maintenance requirements.

Part 2 – Service Level Agreements

(3) Service level agreements must include—

(a) system availability requirements;

(b) performance standards;

(c) support response times;

(d) maintenance windows;

(e) penalty provisions.

(4) Contractors must provide—

(a) regular performance reports;

(b) incident notifications;

(c) security updates;

(d) technical support.

Schedule 7: Information Governance Requirements

Part 1 - Data Management Standards

(1) Information governance policies must address—

(a) data classification;

(b) data retention;

(c) data disposal;

(d) access control;

(e) privacy protection.

(2) Data sharing agreements must specify—

(a) purpose of sharing;

(b) data to be shared;

(c) security requirements;

(d) recipient responsibilities;

(e) compliance obligations.

Part 2 – Privacy Requirements

(3) Privacy impact assessments must be conducted—

(a) before implementing new functionality;

(b) when changing data processing methods;

(c) when sharing data with new parties;

(d) at regular intervals for existing systems.

(4) Patient privacy rights must include—

(a) access to records;

(b) correction of errors;

(c) data portability;

(d) restriction of processing;

(e) objection to processing.

Schedule 8: System Recovery and Business Continuity

Part 1 – Disaster Recovery Requirements

(1) Disaster recovery plans must include—

(a) recovery time objectives;

(b) recovery point objectives;

(c) backup procedures;

(d) restoration procedures;

(e) testing requirements.

(2) Business continuity measures must address—

(a) system failures;

(b) cyber attacks;

(c) natural disasters;

(d) pandemic scenarios;

(e) staff unavailability.

Part 2 – Incident Response

(3) Incident response procedures must specify—

(a) incident classification;

(b) notification requirements;

(c) response priorities;

(d) escalation procedures;

(e) recovery processes.

(4) Post-incident activities must include—

(a) root cause analysis;

(b) impact assessment;

(c) corrective actions;

(d) preventive measures;

(e) lesson learned documentation.

Schedule 9: Enforcement and Penalties

Part 1 – Enforcement Framework

(1) Enforcement actions may include—

(a) warning notices;

(b) improvement notices;

(c) monetary penalties;

(d) mandatory improvements;

(e) special measures.

(2) Monetary penalties shall be—

(a) proportionate to the breach;

(b) consider mitigating factors;

(c) take account of corrective actions;

(d) reflect repeat violations.

Part 2 – Appeals Process

(3) Appeals may be made against—

(a) enforcement notices;

(b) monetary penalties;

(c) mandatory requirements;

(d) special measures.

(4) Appeal procedures must—

(a) specify grounds for appeal;

(b) set time limits;

(c) establish review process;

(d) provide for final determination.

This Bill was jointly researched by Safeguard UK and u/Oracle_of_Mercia MP, drafted under the direction of u/model-mob, and presented to Parliament by the Right Honourable u/Oracle_of_Mercia as a Private Member's Bill.

Opening Speech:

Mr. Speaker,

The House finds itself today considering legislation of the utmost importance to our National Health Service and the millions who depend upon it. The NHS Digital Infrastructure and Patient Access Bill before us today represents a vital step towards modernising our health service whilst ensuring it remains true to its founding principles of universal care, free at the point of use.

Right Honourable and Honourable Members will be acutely aware of the pressing challenges facing our NHS's digital capabilities. Indeed, we need only look to recent events where one of our largest NHS trusts suffered a catastrophic IT failure lasting ten days. Such occurrences, I regret to inform the House, are not mere isolated incidents but symptomatic of chronic underinvestment and fragmentation in NHS digital infrastructure. The Bill before us today, Mr Deputy Speaker, sets forth three principal measures to address these challenges.

Firstly, it establishes a unified digital infrastructure system under NHS England's leadership. At present, whilst our GP surgeries have largely embraced digital transformation, our secondary care services woefully lag behind. This cannot continue. The Bill mandates proper integration and interoperability across all Regional Health Authorities.

Secondly, Mr Deputy Speaker, the Bill places our patients at the heart of digital transformation. It requires the establishment of a comprehensive patient access system enabling constituents across our nations to book appointments, manage prescriptions, and access their health records through secure digital means.

Thirdly, and crucially, it establishes stringent data protection and security standards. The House will note that this comes at a time when cyber security in our health service has never been more critical.

The British Medical Association's findings that over a quarter of NHS clinicians lose more than four hours weekly due to inefficient IT systems should alarm every Member of this House. This represents countless hours that could be spent treating patients, reducing waiting lists, and improving care.

Mr Deputy Speaker, I anticipate that some Honourable Members may raise concerns about previous attempts at NHS digitalisation. They would be right to do so. However, this Bill learns from past mistakes. Unlike the National Programme for IT under the previous Labour government in 2011, this legislation emphasises local engagement whilst maintaining national standards. It provides realistic implementation timelines and, crucially, ensures proper training and support for our healthcare professionals.

The Bill makes provision for proper funding and resource allocation, ensuring that NHS trusts and Regional Health Authorities have the means to implement these vital changes. It establishes robust procurement frameworks and contract management provisions to ensure value for money for British taxpayers.

We have seen both the potential and necessity of digital healthcare delivery. This Bill provides the framework to realise that potential fully and safely.

Members may debate and submit amendments to the Bill until Wednesday the 13th of November at 10PM GMT.

B029 - Loot Box Regulation Bill - 3rd Reading

A

B I L L

T O

regulate the practice of loot boxes in video games.

BE IT ENACTED by the King's most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—

Section One - Lootboxes in games: definitions

(1) The Gambling Act 2005 is amended as follows.

(2) After section 6, insert—

“6A Loot boxes in video games

(1) In this Act, a “loot box” is an item which can be purchased or obtained in a video game which contains randomised items such that the player who obtains a loot box does not know exactly what item they will obtain from the loot box.

(2) For the purposes of subsection (1)—

(a) an item is not a loot box if the player—

(i) obtained it through gameplay,

(ii) purchased it using a virtual currency which can not be purchased using real-world money,

(iii) obtained it for free, or

(iv) otherwise obtained it in such a way that they did not directly or indirectly obtain it using real-world money, but

(b) an item is a loot box regardless of—

(i) whether the loot box was purchased directly or indirectly with real-world money, and

(ii) whether certain items have a greater likelihood of appearing in a loot box than others.

(3) In subsection (2)(a)(i), "virtual currency" means any item obtainable in the game which can be exchanged for other items in the game.”.

(3) In section 3—

(a) at the end of paragraph (c), for “.” substitute “and”,

(b) after paragraph (c), insert—

“(d) loot boxes (within the meaning of section 6A).”.

Section Two - Licences

(1) The Gambling Act 2005 is amended as follows.

(2) In section 65(2)—

(a) at the end of paragraph (j), for “.” substitute “,”,

(b) after paragraph (j), insert—

“(k) to provide loot boxes (a “loot box software licence”).”.

(3) After section 99, insert—

“99A Loot box software licence

(1) This section applies to loot box software licences.

(2) The licence authorises the holder to make loot boxes obtainable in any video game the holder of the licence publishes.

(3) The licence shall require that a video game which allows players to obtain loot boxes may not be played by anyone under eighteen years of age.

(4) The licence shall require that a video game which allows players to obtain loot boxes must disclose to the player the probability of obtaining every item contained in each loot box before a player obtains a loot box.

(5) The licence shall require that the developer of a video game which allows players to obtain loot boxes must submit a report to the Video Standards Report Council on how they model their loot boxes during each year.

(4) The licence shall require that a video game which allows players to obtain loot boxes has an process which allows someone of eighteen or more years of age who has unknowingly provided money or the means for a person under eighteen years of age to obtain a loot box to—

(a) recover any such money, and

(b) to be provided the details of this case the holder of the licence deems relevant.”.

Section 3 - : Restriction of manipulative practices

(1) Under part 4 of the Gambling Act 2005 a new section shall be inserted titled 51 - restricting manipulative practices of Loot Boxes.

(2) Any game containing loot boxes must disclose the probability of obtaining every item contained in each loot box.

(a) These figures must be accurate and presented to players prior to any loot box purchase

(b) Companies must submit an annual report to the Video Standards Report Council on how they model their loot boxes to ensure transparency and note any changes they may undertake with it throughout the financial year.

Section 4 - offences

(1) In the Gambling Act 2005 a new section shall be inserted titled 42 - Loot Boxes under the heading ‘Miscellaneous offences’.

(2) Any video game publisher found distributing a video game containing loot boxes without having a Loot Box Software License in their possession shall be subject to a maximum fine of £700,000 and up to 5 years in prison.

(3) Any video game publisher who breaks the terms found within section 4 shall be given two weeks to conform with the terms found in this section, if by this time they have not conformed with the terms of section 4, the developer shall have their Loot Box Software License revoked.

(4) The use of the term ‘surprise mechanics’ in reference to loot boxes shall be deemed illegal and shall be subject to investigation by the Video Standards Rating Council Board and the Gambling Commission

(a) ‘surprise mechanic’ shall be defined as “A microtransaction that does not guarantee the outcome promised by the microtransaction provider”.

(5) It shall be considered an offence for an Adult to provide money knowingly for someone under the age of 18 to gamble the money on Loot Boxes, if found guilty of knowingly providing Money the Adult shall be subject to:

(a) 15 years imprisonment

Section 5 - Extent, Commencement and Short Title

(1) This Act extends to England and Wales only.

(2) This Act comes into force on the day on which this Act is passed.

(3) This Act may be cited as the Loot Box Regulations Act 2024.

This Bill was written by u/AdSea260 MP as a Private Members Bill.

Opening Speech:

Mr. Speaker,

I like many of my generation remember growing up and playing video games on my PlayStation 2. I remember these games being of good quality, where you can explore the worlds for hours without having to be worrying if I am going to spend money to level up my characters, or spending it on simple things that should already be available to unlock in the game, the problem now Mr Speaker is that AAA game developers have become greedy because they know that hardcore player's will spend thousands of pounds on a franchise they love.

However for the casual player like myself this just makes me lose interest in the franchise, now I can give an example of this and that is Assassin's Creed, I remember the Ezio trilogy which was a genuine masterpiece of storytelling I cried when I played the last game of that trilogy, it was genuinely one of the most impactful gaming experiences in my life, however if we flash forward nearly a decade later to Assassin's Creed Odyssey you can't even leave the first island without having to either grind for experience points or pay between £30-50 just to level up your character to be able to play the next segment of the game.

Mr Speaker this is morally wrong and disgusting. Gamers as a community need to be respected and not taken advantage by game developers and their investors, we have also seen in recent times scourges of genuine gaming like fortnight and Roblox that prey on young children and lure them into gambling away either their own or their parents money, I have seen it too many times and even one of my own constituents who I spoke to during the by-election said that close to Christmas time last year their child spent up to £1000 in microtransactions with no chance of getting the money back of the company because there is no legal duty for an appeals process for these companies to adhere to.

Mr Speaker this simply needs to be stopped and this is why this bill will go a long way to assuring this, I commend this bill to the house.

Sources:

• Loot boxes in video games - House of Commons Library (parliament.uk)
• Loot boxes within video games (gamblingcommission.gov.uk)
• Immersive and addictive technologies (parliament.uk)
• Review of the Gambling Act 2005 Terms of Reference and Call for Evidence - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Video Games Research Framework - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Members may debate the Bill until Wednesday the 13th of November at 10PM GMT.