When a Bill is committed after its second reading, what aspect cannot be debated by the PSSC?

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Accepted Answer

The Principle of the Bill Cannot Be Debated by a PSSC When Committed After the Second Reading

When a Bill is committed to a Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC) after its second reading, the committee is restricted from debating the principle of the Bill. Instead, the PSSC's focus must be solely on the details of the legislation. This procedural distinction is outlined in the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders (DRSO).
Committal Under Standing Order 54(1)

The Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill 2026 was committed to a PSSC under Standing Order (SO) 54(1) of the DRSO. This particular method of committal, which occurs before a Bill's second reading, allows the PSSC to discuss both the details and the merits and principles of the Bill, as per SO55(1) DRSO.
Committal Under Standing Order 54(2)

In contrast, a committal under SO54(2) DRSO takes place after a Bill has undergone its second reading but before it is sent to a Committee of the whole House. For such committals, SO55(2) DRSO explicitly states that the PSSC is prohibited from debating the fundamental principle of the Bill.
Focus on Details

The restriction on debating the Bill's principle after the second reading underscores the procedural stage of legislative review. At this point, the general concept and purpose of the Bill are presumed to have been accepted during the second reading. Consequently, the PSSC's mandate shifts to refining the legislative text and addressing specific provisions.
Implications for Review Process

Committing a Bill to a PSSC before its second reading, as was done with the FOI Bill 2026, is generally seen as an opportunity for a more comprehensive review. This allows for substantive engagement with the legislation's core ideas and details, potentially leading to a more robust and inclusive legislative outcome. Civil society groups have welcomed this approach, emphasizing the need for transparency and stakeholder involvement in the review process.

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When a Bill is committed after its second reading, what aspect cannot be debated by the PSSC?

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