Report (1st Day)

Part of Welfare Reform Bill – in the House of Lords at 12:45 pm on 22 October 2009.

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Photo of Baroness Thomas of Winchester Baroness Thomas of Winchester Spokesperson for Work and Pensions 12:45, 22 October 2009

My Lords, I might as well tear up what I was going to say. That was very unexpected. I am grateful particularly for the powerful speech of the noble Baroness, Lady Hollis, and for great support from the noble Baroness, Lady Meacher. They put the situation in a nutshell. I understand that the noble Lord, Lord Freud, was not so keen, but on this occasion his support is not necessary. If the Minister will come back at Third Reading with something for us, we will accept that with gratitude and look forward to seeing how we can take the matter forward. I beg leave to withdraw the amendment.

Amendment 5 withdrawn.

Amendment 6

Moved by Lord Freud

6: Clause 2, page 4, line 21, at end insert—

"( ) Nothing in this section shall cause any financial sanction to be imposed in the case of a single parent with a child under five years of age."