This factsheet has been withdrawn. You may find the House of Commons Information Office’s new publications on how Parliament works useful
If you require further information please contact the House of Commons Information Office: Tel: 020 7219 4272, Email: hcinfo@parliament.uk, Text phone: dial 18001 followed by 020 7219 4272
At the beginning of every new session of Parliament, the House of Commons is summoned to the Lords to hear the Speech from the Throne outlining government policy for the new session. When the Commons return to their own Chamber, they do not turn immediately to consideration of the Speech. Instead the Outlawries Bill is read a first time - a Bill which no Member presents, which has never been printed, and which is not intended to make any further progress.