LMFM By Louise Walsh Couple describe new legislation as positive step to get State to recognise their baby son existed
A determined couple who have long lobbied the Government to recognise babies born before 24 weeks have described new legislation as a positive step in finally getting her late son a certificate of life.
Caroline and Martin Smith have been fighting for changes to the law since their baby boy Stephen was termed as a late miscarriage when he was born at 20 weeks and two days and weighing 420 grams on October 20, 2015.
As he did not meet the criteria for stillbirth under the current law, he is not officially recognised by the State.
UK Parliament
Private Members Bill ballot: 20 May 2021
20 May 2021 (updated on 20 May 2021) May 2021
The ballot for Commons Private Members Bills for the 2021-2022 session took place on Thursday 20 May. Mark Jenkinson was drawn in first place.
Ballot results
Chairman of Ways and Means, Rt Hon Dame Eleanor Laing, drew 20 numbered ballot balls and read out the names of the successful MPs.
The full draw can be watched back on Parliament TV.
The Member drawn at position one has the first choice of a Private Members Bill Friday to debate their Bill.
459 Members entered the ballot. The top 7 will be guaranteed a full day of debate on their Bill.
Mark Jenkinson
Workington MP Mark Jenkinson will be given the chance to introduce a Private Members’ Bill in the Houses of Parliament.
Mr Jenkinson has been drawn out first in the Private Members’ Bill Ballot in the House of Commons, which gives him the first choice of a Private Members’ Bill Friday to debate their bill.
The ballot for Private Members’ Bills gives MPs the chance to be one of the first 20 to introduce a Private Members’ Bill on a subject of their choice this session.
Those drawn higher in the ballot are more likely to get time to debate their bill, which means it has a higher chance of becoming law.
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