Amendment proposed: 28, in clause 4, page 3, line 24, at end insert—

“(4) Nothing in this section requires any act or omission that conflicts with the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Human Rights Act 1998.”—(Chris Stephens.)

This amendment would ensure that any act or omission under the “gagging clause” in clause 4 would not conflict with the Human Rights Act 1998 (HRA), in particular, Article 10 (right to freedom of expression) and Article 9 (freedom of thought, conscience and religion) of the ECHR as incorporated by the HRA.

Question put, That the amendment be made.

The House divided: Ayes 197, Noes 275.

Question accordingly negatived.

Bill to be read the Third time tomorrow.