Clause 2 - Piloting of new provisions
School Transport Bill
11:15 am
Ms Charlotte Atkins (Assistant Whip (funded by HM Treasury); Staffordshire Moorlands, Labour)
We wanted to assess a certain number of pilots and we felt that it was sensible to have a figure. A huge number of authorities have shown an interest in the pilots, and the proposal has been very successful. We expect more authorities to come forward, and, if they do, we can increase the maximum number simply by amending the regulations. We have set the figure at 20, but we are quite happy to increase it should expressions of interest warrant that and should viable pilot schemes be proposed. The number is not a problem, as the hon. Gentleman suggests. I hope that he will be satisfied with that response.
My hon. Friend the Member for Monmouth (Mr. Edwards) has raised some important issues. In his constituency and nationally, he has campaigned powerfully against the three-for-two allowance. He has
raised the issue's profile and argued his point persuasively. Indeed, he has become the acknowledged leader on the issue—
It being twenty-five minutes past Eleven o'clock, The Chairman adjourned the Committee without Question put, pursuant to the Standing Order.
Adjourned till this day at half-past Two o'clock.