AMENDMENTS
Departments should also consider whether the subject is sufficiently important for the Government to inspire an amendment to the EDM, especially if it has attracted a significant number of signatories. If so, Departments should submit seperately direct to the relevant Ministerial Private Office with a side copy to PRU. If Ministers approve, arrangements will be made to find MP's to sponsor the motion. The amendments can either change part of the existing EDM or rewrite it completely. A further line to take will also be required by the Leader of the House to reflect the amendment. This procedure should be used sparingly, bearing in mind other means of putting across Government policy, eg. inspired PQ's.
W. Freeman
Parliamentary Relations Unit
K 302
(270-2233)