356.The Access to Justice Bill was introduced in the House of Lords on 2 December 1998. It received its Second Reading on 14 December 1998 (Official Report, cols. 1107-1127 & 1140-1201). The Committee Stage took place on 19 January 1999 (cols. 475-572); 21 January 1999 (cols. 701-752 & 771-792); 26 January 1999 (cols. 878-935 & 951-1008); and 28 January 1999 (cols. 1137-1193 & 1210-1278). The Report Stage took place on 11 February 1999 (cols. 329-384 & 390-456) and 16 February 1999 (cols. 551-571, 580-619 & 627-672). The Third Reading was on 16 March 1999 (cols. 611-628 & 646-693).
357.The Bill was brought to the House of Commons on 17 March 1999. It received its Second Reading on 14 April 1999 (Official Report, cols. 230-332). The Bill was considered by Standing Committee E in 8 sittings from 27 April to 13 May. Report Stage and Third Reading took place on 22 June 1999 (cols. 980-1079).
358.The House of Lords considered the amendments made by the Commons on 14 July 1999 (Official Report, cols. 398-538) and disagreed with certain of them. The Commons considered the Lords’ reasons for disagreement on 21 July 1999 (cols. 1201-1243) and proposed alternative amendments. The Lords considered and approved these on 26 July 1999 (cols. 1295-1312). The Access to Justice Act received the Royal Assent on 27 July 1999.