'(1) The Electricity Act 1989 is amended as follows.

(2) Omit section 11A(6)(b) and insert-

"(b) if one or more relevant licence holders give notice of objection to the Authority within that time-

(i) the proportion (expressed as a percentage) of the relevant licence holders, calculated in accordance with subsection (7A), who have given notice of objection is less than the percentage set out in subsection (7B); and

(ii) the percentage given by subsection (7) is less than the percentage set out in subsection (7B); or".

(3) After section 11A(7) insert-

"(7A) Where more than one relevant licence holder is in common ownership, these shall be collectively considered to be a single relevant licence holder for the purpose of calculating the percentage.

(7B) The percentage shall be the higher of 50% or such other figure as may be prescribed by the Secretary of State.".'.- (Simon Hughes.)

Brought up.

Question put, That the clause be added to the Bill.

The House divided: Ayes 63, Noes 271.

Question accordingly negatived.