If before the expiration of seven days after the introduction of a Confirmation Bill under the immediately preceding section in the House in which it originates a petition be presented against any Order comprised in the Bill, it shall be lawful for any member to give notice that he intends to move that the Bill shall be referred to a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament; and in that case such motion may be moved immediately after the Bill is read a second time, and, if carried, then the Bill shall stand referred to a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament, and the opponent shall, subject to the practice of Parliament, be allowed to appear and oppose by himself, his counsel, agent, and witnesses; and counsel, agents, and witnesses may be heard in support of the Order. The Joint Committee shall hear and determine any question of locus standi.

The report of the Joint Committee shall, subject to standing Orders, be laid before both Houses of Parliament.

The Joint Committee may, by a majority, award costs, and such costs may be taxed and recovered and shall be secured in the manner provided in F1sections 9 to 12 of the Parliamentary Costs Act 2006, subject to any necessary modifications.

If no such motion as in subsection (1) of this section mentioned is carried, the Bill shall be deemed to have passed the stage of Committee, and shall be ordered to be considered as if reported by a Committee.

When such Bill has been read a third time and passed in the first House of Parliament, the like proceedings shall, subject to Standing Orders, be taken in the second House of Parliament.