'(1) The Lord Chancellor must by regulations establish an independent regulatory authority for bailiffs and enforcement agents.

(2) Regulations under subsection (1) must make provision for—

(a) the licensing of enforcement agents;

(b) the approval of the businesses and organisations which employ them;

(c) the accreditation of the professional bodies which represent them;

(d) the setting of standards of conduct;

(e) the monitoring of performance;

(f) the investigation of complaints;

(g) the punishment of failure to comply with standards of conduct; and

(h) the provision of redress where appropriate.'.— [Mr. Austin Mitchell.]

Brought up, and read the First time.

Motion made, and Question put, That the clause be read a Second time:—

The House divided: Ayes 217, Noes 282.

Question accordingly negatived.