That is the crux of the matter. I am as keen as the hon. Gentleman is to get on with this. Local authorities are looking to us to make announcements on this issue. I am also conscious that there are other cases—which I am extremely grateful that he has not mentioned tonight—that have thrown up some lessons to be learned about the way in which we deal with these matters. I cannot give him a specific timetable, but I will, as soon as I am in a position to do so.

We need to provide assurance that standards are being maintained. That is why the ethical regime is vital, and why it is important that all tiers of local government, including parishes, should follow the codes of conduct. We should also learn the lessons of the past four years and do the best we can to ensure that there is consensus across the three tiers of local government in regard to the changes that we are seeking to introduce.

Question put and agreed to.

Adjourned accordingly at one minute to Eleven o'clock.