Schedule 1 - The Water Services Regulation Authority
Water Bill [Lords]
5:28 pm
Mr Elliot Morley (Minister of State (Environment and Agri-Environment), Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Scunthorpe, Labour)
Perhaps I can bring the argument to a conclusion. I am trying to take into account hon. Members' views, with which I do not necessarily disagree. The argument comes down to the fact that the Bill stipulates a minimum structure for the board, which of course is the minimum protection. I do not disagree with many of the arguments advanced by hon. Members—they are perfectly reasonable points. The Bill allows flexibility in the size of the board and
what is most appropriate with regard to a chairman and a chief executive. Our guideline should be what is most effective.