Clause 92 - Extension of transmission licences offshore
Energy Bill [Lords]
3:45 pm
Mr Norman Baker (Shadow Secretary of State for the Environment, Environment, Food & Rural Affairs; Lewes, Liberal Democrat)
It could be argued that the amendments that I tabled with my hon. Friend the Member for Hazel Grove (Mr. Stunell) are not significantly different from the Bill. Modestly, however, we think that our wording is better.
The amendments give us the opportunity to raise an important issue. When powers are exercised by the Secretary of State, that should be done with consistency and in a manner in which those affected would reasonably expect them to be exercised. It seems to us that our amendments to clause 92(2) would give the message that there would be such consistency of treatment. In responding, I hope that the Minister will say how the power is likely to be exercised and what steps will be taken to ensure consistency in decision making.