Why Labour could struggle in an English Parliament

  • Labour
An English flag is projected onto the House of Commons. Credit: Matt Crossick/PA Archive

David Cameron has attempted to seize back some of the political initiative over devolved powers now heading to Scotland.

The Prime Minister talked of a new deal for the home nations and, in an attempt to wrong foot Labour, he said he wants English MPs to vote on English laws.

ITV News Deputy Political Editor Chris Ship reports:

Mr Cameron wants changes in England to follow the same timetable as Scotland but Labour are in no such rush.

Although a bill is unlikely to be passed by the General Election in May, the aim is to have a draft Scotland Bill by Burns Night in January.

However, Labour only wants to start looking at possible new powers for Wales, England and Northern Ireland next Autumn.

The House of Commons has 650 MPs but a debate only affecting England would see that number reduced to 533.

Based on the last General Election, that would mean an English Parliament would present the Conservatives with a 63 majority, which could cause a potential Labour Government serious problems in passing legislation.