Thread by @bricksilk

My speech at 2nd reading, on the sidelining of Parliament by the #WAB, is here: parliamentlive.tv/event/index/8c…. The developing written record of the debate is here: hansard.parliament.uk/lords/2020-01-…. /1

Many interesting speeches early on including Barwell and Bridges from Govt benches, Darling and Beith from opposition, Kinnoull and Butler from cross-benches. /2

Clearly the Bill is imperfect: a major faultline is between those who say we should amend it (ie do our job) and those (the influential Cormack) who fear the long-term consequences. /3

The position of Labour (without whom no vote can realistically be won) will be crucial on how many (if any) amendments are pursued to a vote next week. /4

It seems to be generally assumed that the Govt will use its Commons majority to reverse any Lords amendment, however constructive. /5

As the doughtiest fighters for EU membership (Kerr, Hannay, Foulkes) accept the reality of Brexit, and others (Buscombe) celebrate it, the debate has had some almost emotional moments. /6

Best part of 3 hours still to go! /end