Interpretation

Part of Orders of the Day — Commonwealth Development Corporation Bill [Lords] – in the House of Commons at 9:45 pm on 14 July 1999.

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Photo of Mr Phil Sawford Mr Phil Sawford Labour, Kettering 9:45, 14 July 1999

We were presented with a considerable amount of evidence that there had been consultation through the City of London corporation. There had also been residents meetings. There had been much consultation. The one group of people which probably had not been consulted in particular were employees. Residents and businesses had had consultation, but that brings us back to the amendments. My hon. Friend the Member for Hayes and Harlington (Mr. McDonnell) is trying to include employees within the process.

Although extending the franchise on the basis of property values is one way to give a broader franchise to people who are involved and who make their living in the City, it is very much on a corporate basis. The amendments would extend it to people who have a working interest, who make their living and earn their livelihood there. It is still less than full democracy.