Clause 10 - Powers to require information
Employment Bill
6:15 pm
Mr Philip Hammond (Runnymede and Weybridge, Conservative)
I heard my hon. Friend's suggestion and I hope that the Minister took it on board. I am not sure that the paragraph would grant to the Secretary of State the power to require countersignature that he is seeking. I take it to be more about the investigation of suspected fraud and abuse. We are anxious to support the war against crime in relation not only to social security fraud, but to more general anti-terrorism measures. However, as the Opposition we are required constantly to be vigilant in defence of the legitimate freedoms of individuals. This measure, taken literally, is an unwarranted extension of the power of the Secretary of State.