Commenting on today’s debate on the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Bill in the House of Commons, Liberal Democrat Shadow Justice Secretary, Simon Hughes MP said:

"This has been a shameful day for the House of Commons - MPs should set an example of open government, not apply it to everybody but ourselves.

"David Maclean’s Bill and the way it has got through the Commons will clearly diminish respect for Parliament. But the battle will go on and hopefully the Lords will deliver us from this terrible mistake.

"I hope the public will make their views very clear to the MPs who supported the Bill and to the next Prime Minister that this is absolutely the wrong direction for open, accountable government."

Liberal Democrat Shadow Leader of the House, David Heath MP added:

"This was a black day for Parliament.

"Firstly, because a bad bill which will damage both Freedom of Information and the reputation of Parliament was passed.

"Secondly, because Parliamentary procedure meant that many MPs could not make their voices heard.

"And thirdly, because the Government has been able to claim that it was neutral on the Bill while cynically doing everything it could to mobilise support for the former Conservative Chief Whip."

Note: You can sign our online petition at http://www.ourcampaign.org.uk/foi