The Record Review: 10 February 2012

How should controversial bills be handle?

The most recent edition of prime minister's questions has taken place against a backdrop of media rumours that the health secretary has lost support inside number ten.

There are also rumours that plans to dump the Health & Social Care Bill altogether have been considered and ultimately dismissed.

But what does all this say about how to handle a controversial bill?

The Record Review's Alicia McCarthy spoke to the former Labour health minister Lord Hunt, the Conservative MP and chairman of the procedure committee, Sir Roger Gale, and Keith Griggs, a reputation management expert.

Early Day Motions

Is there any point in EDMs?

A row is developing in parliament over the use - or otherwise - of Early Day Motions (EDMs).

They are a way for MPs to draw attention to a particular issue.

A member can put down an EDM on anything from supporting the armed forces to congratulating Ann Widdecombe's dancing skills on Strictly Come Dancing.

Any MP who agrees can add their signature.

Nearly 3,000 have so far been tabled in this Parliament but they have no chance of being debated in the Commons.

Backbench Conservative MP Graham Evans has called for the EDM system to be completely overhauled.

The Record Review's Billy Hill spoke to Mr Evans and a supporter of EDMs, Labour MP Paul Flynn.

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