On 12 May, I highlighted on this blog the problems that the Postal Services Bill might encounter in the House of Commons, following a relatively smooth passage through the Lords. So what has happened since then and is the Government on-course to get the Bill passed before the summer recess?
21 May was the day that things began happening in the Commons with regard to the PSB. On this date, the Bill received its first reading. However, this stage is just a formality and no debate or vote takes place. Now usually what happens after this first stage is that a Bill progresses to its second reading circa two weeks later, at which there is a debate on the principle – rather than the detail – of the Bill. However, no date has been set for the PSB to receive its second reading; given the controversial nature of this Bill, it would appear that time is running out.
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