Clause 1 - Closure notice
Anti-social Behaviour Bill
12:45 pm
Ms Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole, Liberal Democrat)
Thank you, Mr. O'Brien. I would rather concentrate on those for the moment. Amendments Nos. 129 and 130 are very important to us, and we will be seeking a vote on them, for the reasons that have already been outlined. Part of the equation is rehabilitation. There are some wonderful initiatives in the community, many of them receiving Home Office support—financial and otherwise—which we fear could be affected by some aspects of the Bill as it stands.
We want to see our amendments in the Bill. The first one is concerned with ensuring that the clause does not apply to premises operated by agencies that are working to aid and to rehabilitate drug users and the homeless. We have concerns about the Secretary of State's having the power to set out regulations. Notwithstanding that, we feel that the amendment should be in the Bill. It must be seen as a whole
package. When we have all those excellent initiatives, they must be recognised as such and they must not risk running foul of the law.
Lambeth has been successful in closing down crack houses. Its authorities are involved in lots of activities, which, in the process of rehabilitation, involve having people who are taking drugs in houses. The amendment is meant to be constructive. We feel very strongly about it. It is interesting that the Minister has pre-empted us and mentioned those issues already.
I turn to amendment No. 130, which the Minister has touched on. It seeks to deal with the innocent person who, for some reason or another, is intimidated into allowing activities to take place in their house. It may be a single parent; all sorts of vulnerable people may be used. We want to be assured that there will be provision for rehousing and alternative accommodation. We will be asking for a vote on the two amendments, and we will interested to hear the Minister's comments on amendment No. 13.
It being One o'clock, The Chairman adjourned the Committee without Question put, pursuant to the Standing Order.
Adjourned till this day at half-past Four o'clock.