Clause 20 - Preparation and submission of evidence
Regional Assemblies (Preparations) Bill
5:45 pm
Mr Philip Hammond (Runnymede and Weybridge, Conservative)
In general, I am happy with what the right hon. Gentleman has said. I am a little confused, however, about the distinction between parts of the Bill where there is a requirement to consult the Electoral Commission and other parts where the Minister is effectively giving the same commitment from the Dispatch Box. It would have been better to draft the Bill with a single stipulation, towards the end, that before giving any direction to the Electoral Commission the Minister should consult it and review any advice received from it.
I have a couple more general points to raise with the Minister, but for the convenience of the Committee I shall do so in the clause stand part debate. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.
Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.
Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the Bill.