Clause 20 - Entry and inspection of premises
Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Bill
6:15 pm
Mr John Hutton (Minister of State, Department of Health; Barrow and Furness, Labour)
I am delighted to accept—[Hon Members: Oh!]—the hon. Gentleman's argument, but not necessarily his amendment. I agree that there should be proper and effective co-ordination. However, the regulator needs these separate and independent powers of inspection. The argument for co-ordination is well made. I simply refer the hon. Gentleman to clause 47(8), which requires the regulator and CHAI to co-operate in the exercise of their respective functions under part 1 of the Bill. The point that the hon. Gentleman seeks to make has already been acknowledged in a later part of the Bill.
Mr. Lansley: I am grateful for the Minister's response and for drawing my attention to that part of the Bill. On the understanding that it will be used in that respect, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.
Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.
Clause 20 ordered to stand part of the Bill.