Proceeds of Crime Bill

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 6:24 pm on 30 October 2001.

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Photo of Stephen Hesford Stephen Hesford Labour, Wirral West 6:24, 30 October 2001

If there is a point to be made, it should be made in Committee; but, with respect, I do not agree that a point was being made.

I merely ask Opposition Members to reflect on whether they warmly welcome the Bill. I suspect that some do, but I hope that we shall hear a more positive announcement in the winding-up speech. I want to know why they support a Bill to protect the communities that Labour Members want to protect.

In many ways, the Bill is a consolidating measure. It is complex—it has more than 400 clauses—so it is not surprising if there are some errors of drafting, but, again, this is not the time or place to discuss them. The debate is more about the principle.

Drug trafficking is an evil. It is a black economy. My hon. Friend Mr. MacDougall said that it accounts for 1 per cent. of GDP. My understanding is that it accounts for 2 per cent. It is a disgrace if, in a civilised country in the 21st century, we cannot get our hands on that money and put it to better use. That is what the Bill is about.