Orders of the Day — Schedule 2 — Amendments to the Police Act 1996 — 10 May 2006 at 17:45

Amendment proposed: No. 82, in page 73, line 18, at end insert-

'Referendums on proposals to alter police areas

20A After section 33 (Objections to alterations proposed by Secretary of State) there is inserted-

"33A Referendums on proposals to alter police areas

(1) Before making an order under section 32 the Secretary of State shall by order cause a referendum to be held in every area affected about the proposed alteration in police areas.

(2) The Secretary of State shall make an order under subsection (1)-

(a) in relation to a proposed alteration made under section 32(3)(a), after he has received a request under that subsection;

(b) in relation to a proposed alteration made under section 32(3)(b), after he has given further notice to objectors under section 33(4)(b).

(3) The question to be asked in a referendum to be held in pursuance of an order under subsection (1) above shall be agreed by-

(a) the Secretary of State,

(b) each police authority affected by the proposed alteration, and

(c) the Electoral Commission.

and specified in the order.

(4) The Secretary of State shall, in consultation with-

(a) each police authority affected by the proposed alteration, and

(b) the Electoral Commission

ensure that an order made under subsection (1) above makes such provision as is necessary to secure the proper conduct of a referendum.

(5) No order shall be made under subsection (1) above unless a draft of the order has been laid before and approved by resolution of each House of Parliament.

(6) The Secretary of State shall not exercise his power to make an order under section 32 unless a majority of votes cast in a referendum held under this section in each of the existing areas affected supports the proposed alteration." '.- [Nick Herbert.]

Question put, That the amendment be made:-

The House divided: Ayes 223, Noes 295.

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