John Bercow supports a Bill to ratify international agreements which includes the sanctioning of the new Red Crystal symbol for use in conflicts where the existing Red Cross or Red Crescent is not acceptable.

John Bercow (Buckingham) (Con): Who will determine the circumstances in which the red crystal, as distinct from either alternative, will be used?

Gillian Merron: That is a matter on which the appropriate movement in-country will make a decision. As I will go on to say, our default position will be to use the red cross; but in all cases, we will consider the circumstances of the conflict and make a decision for our own part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

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John Bercow: I am extremely grateful to the Minister for giving way. She is very reasonable, and is addressing the House in her usual mellifluous tones. I am minded to support the Second Reading of the Bill, but I am a bit befuddled about one thing. I hope that she can release me from my ignorance before long. There are three clauses in the Bill, and clause 3 deals with commencement. It specifies that the other two clauses will come into effect, by statutory instrument, on a date to be decided by Ministers. The measure is important and reasonably urgent, so when will the instrument be brought forward?

Gillian Merron: I am afraid that I cannot tell the House that at this stage, but I shall be glad to do so in my closing remarks.

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