(b) Yes. It is the Minister responsible for the relevant portfolio who outlines the provisions of the Bill, explains what it will achieve, and gives the reasons for its introduction. This is known as the 'second reading speech'.

The speech is recorded and can be a valuable guide later when the courts have to decide what the provisions of the legislation mean.

Click here to read an extract from the (fictitious) second reading speech given by the Minister for Sport when introducing the Injuries in Sports Bill.