Clause 2
Sustainable Communities Bill
10:45 am
Phil Woolas (Minister of State (Local Government & Community Cohesion), Department for Communities and Local Government; Oldham East and Saddleworth, Labour)
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for having introduced some class into our musical analogies—[Interruption.] I do not wish to denigrate “Humble Pie”, but I cannot recall any of its records.
The hon. Gentleman tabled new clause 2. I have described some of the problems that I have with it, but let me respond to his points. He is concerned that there is no timetable in the alternative proposal. I am more than happy to have a timetable. It would be desirable to discuss that with the LGA, but let me give the reassurance that, of course, it would be sensible to have one. The community call for action has a timetable that is introduced through the guidance and procedures, so that makes sense.
I hope that I have reassured the Committee on the point about the LGA and why I have a problem with its inclusion in the Bill but none at all with its being in practice “the selector”. In fact, it is difficult to think of another person or body to undertake the role, particularly given the point about consensus.