LONDON (UK) – In a bid to defuse a rebellion over its sweeping powers to implement coronavirus curbs, the government on Wednesday promised that lawmakers would have more say over the introduction of new national measures.
Health Minister Matt Hancock moved to head off a revolt in Conservative circles just hours after the speaker of the lower house Lindsay Hoyle blamed the government of a “total disregard” for parliament when bringing in new curbs.
A setback in parliament would have affected the prime minister’s authority at a time when he is facing flak over his response to the pandemic.
With the government in damage control mode, the lawmakers decided to pass the extension of the Coronavirus Act, which gives the government emergency powers to introduce curbs.
“Today I can confirm to the House (of Commons) that for significant national measures with effect in the whole of England or UK-wide we will consult parliament, wherever possible we will hold votes before such regulations come into force,” Hancock said.
“But of course responding to the virus means that the government must act at speed when required and we cannot hold up urgent regulations which are needed to control the virus and save lives.”
The health minister’s intervention eased the concern of parliamentarians.
