Debate resumed from 16 September, on motion by Mr Laurie Ferguson:

That this bill be now read a second time.

upon which Dr Stone moved by way of amendment:

That all words after “That” be omitted with a view to substituting the following words:“the House defers consideration of the bill until the following have occurred:

(1)    the Government redrafts the bill so that it provides a ministerial discretion for those who cannot meet the residency requirements but whose citizenship can be demonstrated to be in the national interest; and

(2)    the Government redrafts the bill so that it provides a ministerial discretion for awarding citizenship to offshore workers who cannot meet the residency requirements, but who can demonstrate significant hardship or disadvantage.”

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