[Sir Nicholas Winterton in the Chair]

I welcome Members to the afternoon sitting of the Policing and Crime Bill. I apologise for my hoarse voice, but at my young age I have succumbed to a cold, which has attacked my throat and I am therefore not quite at my usual volume.

When the Committee adjourned at 1 pm, the Minister was on his feet, dealing with an amendment to clause 16. I therefore ask him to conclude his speech, which I believe he will do quite briefly, after which I shall call the hon. Member for Hornchurch to respond.