Clause 8 - Provision of information to voters
Regional Assemblies (Preparations) Bill
12:00 pm
Mr Gary Streeter (South West Devon, Conservative)
My hon. Friend is absolutely right. We must make absolutely sure that we build sufficient safeguards against that.
Why is this matter important? As my hon. Friend has already made clear, the Government will not be neutral if a referendum is held in any region of this country—we are expecting at least one referendum during this Parliament. The Deputy Prime Minister made it clear on the Floor of the House a week or two ago that he will be campaigning vigorously and ferociously in favour of a yes vote in a referendum. He will be the Secretary of State who may by order provide for the dates to be changed at short notice, overnight and very suddenly. No explanation, or justification will be necessary because the Secretary of State has that power under section 109(6) of the 2000 Act.
I do not doubt for a second the integrity of the Deputy Prime Minister, but it is human nature to do all one can to advance a cause to achieve the result that one wants. I do not think that we should allow the Government to be judge and jury. Clause 8(4) is utterly unnecessary. I want the Minister to explain why it is in the Bill, and under what circumstances a change of timetable would be necessary.
My final point on clause 8 relates to subsection (3). I do not know whether it was drafted deliberately to make it almost incomprehensible. When one drills down, it is fine; it is talking about a 14-day gap. However, can the Minister explain why it is drafted in that way? What is the significance of the 43rd day and the 29th day? I know that they are 14 days apart, but why such phrasing? I am sure that it is my failing, but I simply do not understand.
I repeat that clause 8(4) is not appropriate to go on the statute book. I strongly support the amendment.