Under the shake-up, Bills will be published in draft form to give more time for pre-legislative scrutiny by select committees and consultation with outside organisations.

Leader of the House Ann Taylor said the new procedure is part of plans to improve parliamentary procedures and will help inform the government as it finalises the contents of the Bills before they are passed.

A parliamentary "first"

Ms Taylor added: "These new improvements show how, for the first time, government is taking action to ensure wider consultation and greater public scrutiny of important policy areas.

"The publication of draft bills will give greater time for pre-legislative scrutiny by Commons select committees and also allow for outside organisations to see the precise terms of each Bill and make known their comments prior to the formal parliamentary process."

Draft bills will also include a more extensive explanation and description of their purpose and will include notes on individual clauses.

The Social Security Select Committee will now study the draft of the pensions-sharing Bill.

Three more Bills will also be published in draft for scrutiny by select committees: