Clause 2 - Closure order
Anti-social Behaviour Bill
5:15 pm
Ms Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole, Liberal Democrat)
When I first read the amendments, I found them rather seductive. However, I have some concerns and I hope that the Minister will answer them.
I am concerned that one can go too far the other way and not have enough safeguards, and that cases would be adjourned whenever it was thought necessary. It also occurs to me that malicious allegations could be made. Although amendment No. 23 seems a common-sense proposal, I wonder what would be the test of public interest in such cases; I am not sure what level of public interest is involved. It is a matter of great importance. If instant action needs to be taken—perhaps there are lots of drugs or arms involved and some high-profile action needed—amendment No. 23 would make a lot of sense, but it might remove the opportunity to protect the innocent.
Although I have a certain sympathy with the amendments, I am concerned that they go too far. I shall not decide my response until I have heard the Minister's reply.