BRITISH Prime Minister David Cameron has backed down on plans to exclude MPs from the North of Ireland and Scotland from certain votes in the parliament.
The controversial “English votes for English laws” plans have hit a stumbling block, partly thanks to the North of Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).
The Conservatives’ plans would see English, and sometimes English and Welsh, MPs having a say on matters that would affect England only, as opposed to the whole of Britain.
However, the DUP has argued that the reforms should “not be taken lightly” and deserve “careful consideration” before being enacted.
DUP leader Nigel Dodds said he was “very pleased” that the issue is being re-examined.
The DUP's concerns, among other things, have caused David Cameron to postpone the plans.
“I think this reflects a willingness on the part of the government to respect the parliamentary process,” said Mr Cameron’s spokesperson.
Despite this, his spokesperson also said that Mr Cameron is eager to secure a stronger voice for English MPs.
“We remain committed to delivering this and ensuring every part of the UK has a fair say on matters relating to them,” she said.
The Conservatives had been ready to bring the plans to the House of Commons next week but it is understood that they will hold off until September, when the reforms are due to come back before the MPs.
The speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow, will have the final say on the matter when it is debated by the parliament.
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