Clause 53
6:00 pm
Annette Brooke (Mid Dorset and North Poole, Liberal Democrat)
I thank the Minister for her comments, particularly as far as new clause 3 is concerned. I look forward to the results of the further reflection on that point, because it seems as if something has been left out. I am relieved that there is already a power, which exists simply as a backstop, because I would be one of the first to say that we should trust local authorities. However, there appear to be variations between authorities and it is important that the power exists. Since I have been reassured on that point, I beg to ask leave to withdraw the two new clauses.