David Amess, Member of Parliament for Southend West, last night responded to the Gracious Speech by pledging to introduce “a Bill on a referendum” if he is fortunate enough to be drawn in the “top four or half dozen in the ballot for Private Member’s Bills.” In a wide-ranging speech, Mr Amess went on to comment on other measures mentioned in the Gracious Speech, which he stated he was supportive of.

Mr Amess expressed support for measures to strengthen current anti-social behaviour laws by making dog owners responsible for the behaviour of their pets. He also articulated his strong backing for tougher immigration law, as well as for the proposed Care Bill, which will ensure that no one will have to sacrifice their house in order to receive care in old age.

To read the speech in full please click on the following link:

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmhansrd/cm130508/debtext/130508-0003.htm#13050849000274