BSL Act Now: British Sign Language Bill set to have second Lords reading on Friday as peers back first reading

The British Sign Language (BSL) Bill is due to have its second reading in the House of Lords on Friday, after it received its first reading in the chamber on Monday afternoon.

The Bill, which cleared its final stages in the Commons on Friday, was introduced by Government Chief Whip Lord Ashton of Hyde – on behalf of Conservative peer Lord Holmes of Richmond.

While West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper brought forward the proposed legislation as a Private Members’ Bill in the Commons, it will be Lord Holmes who sponsors the Bill in the Lords.

NEW: The #BSLBill had its first reading in the House of Lords this afternoon, when peers voted 'content' to progressing the Bill to its second reading, scheduled for next Monday.

The first reading is often a formality, where the Bill is introduced and its long title read out. pic.twitter.com/PYRabl2ecl

— Liam O'Dell (@LiamODellUK) March 21, 2022

The first reading is often considered a formality, where “the long title […] is read out by the member of the Lords in charge of the Bill” and no debate takes place. Peers unanimously backed the Bill progressing to its second reading.

According to the UK Parliament website, the second reading is due to occur on Friday, with politicians able to debate and discuss the “key principles and main purpose of a Bill” and to suggest amendments.

More information about the BSL’s current progress can be found on the UK Parliament website.

Photo: UK Parliament.

By Liam O’Dell. Liam is an award-winning Deaf freelance journalist and campaigner from Bedfordshire. He can be found talking about disability, theatre, politics and more on Twitter and on his website.