Opposition must know government is ready to debate anything, says Vijay Goel

Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel talks to DNA's Manan Kumar on priorities, and says the government is ready to debate any issue.

What are the priorities before the government?

There is a big agenda. There are six important Ordinances, besides several old Bill in the queue which need to be passed. Then the election of the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is also an important issue. All this can be done with the smooth functioning of Parliament, a top priority for the government. We would seek the Opposition's cooperation on these issues.

Which Bills are on top of the government's riority?

I cannot name Bills in order of priority. The Lok Sabha has passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill-2017 or the triple talaq Bill. It is pending in the Rajya Sabha. Another key piece of legislation stuck in the Rajya Sabha is the National Commission for Backward Classes (Repeal) Bill, 2017. The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill is also a priority.

During the past Sessions, the Opposition accused the government of shirking away from debates on important issues. It again would want the government to engage in debates…

The government is ready for a debate on any issue. It is not shying away from any issue and has repeatedly demonstrated it during previous sessions. The question is: will the Opposition be ready for a debate or again indulge in an unnecessary verbal duel to derail Parliament. The Opposition should understand that there is time for passage of Bills and debates during Zero Hour and Question Hour.