The Government was asked what advice they have given to companies in the private sector on pay increases; proposed cuts in primary healthcare in rural Northumberland; mixed sex wards in hospitals; and why Virgin trains were denied the authority to add two coaches to its trains on the West Coast main line.

Baroness Royall, the new Government Chief Whip, was appointed a member of the panel of Deputy Chairmen of Committees and of the Administration and Works; Privileges; Procedure; and Selection committees, in place of Lord Grocott. Her appointment as Chief Whip was welcomed around the House, and tributes were paid to Lord Grocott who announced his retirement as Chief Whip last week.

Three pieces of secondary legislation were approved without debate. The Human Fertilisation & Embryology Bill was further considered on Report. The house adjourned at 10.07pm.

The Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Bill was further considered in Grand Committee.