Department for Exiting the European Union
Following two days of extensive debate in the House of Commons, the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill, has passed its Second Reading by 326 votes to 290.
The Bill, known as the Repeal Bill, was introduced in the House in July and proceeded to Second Reading last Thursday (07 September), kick starting two days of debate which saw contributions from Members of Parliament on all sides of the House.
The Bill gives effect to the referendum result by repealing the European Communities Act 1972. Its passage marks another significant step towards preparing our statute book for exit day, ensuring that our withdrawal is as smooth and orderly as possible.
Following the vote, Minister for Exiting the EU, Steve Baker said:
Tonight we have taken yet another major step in our work to prepare the UK for our smooth withdrawal from the European Union.
The House of Commons has rightly backed this crucial piece of legislation, giving its support to an orderly exit and helping to provide certainty to businesses, organisations and individuals up and down the country.
We have had two days of informed and vibrant debate and as the Bill proceeds through Parliament we will look with the utmost seriousness at the amendments that are tabled.
It is essential that we work together to deliver a Bill that ensures a functioning legal system outside the EU.
The Bill will move to Committee Stage in the coming weeks as it continues its passage through Parliament.