We’ve both been secretaries of state so we know the temptation for governments of all persuasions to accumulate more powers via statute and regulations.

Each extension of power might make eminent sense when suggested in a departmental memo. But, put together, they represent another step towards the power to make laws shifting away from parliament and towards the executive.

As the EU withdrawal bill returns to the House of Commons this week it is for that reason that we, and many fellow select committee chairs, have added our names to amendments designed to protect and preserve parliament’s role in scrutinising the way in which the UK leaves the EU.

The Brexit process will shape our country for decades to come. That’s why it is important