---

Consumer Credit Bill

I will take the points individually. I understand the point the noble Earl makes in suggesting that it is too difficult for professionals. In the Bill, we seek to strike a balance between proper protection for the consumer and not unreasonable burdens on lenders. I repeat the point: there is a real difference between a business being able to set out in advance when it wants to send out its statements and having to tailor specific requirements for each loan, other than in circumstances where there are events of potential default and arrears where other provisions kick in. The noble Earl suggested that we might trial the provision in Scotland. If it is administratively difficult to do so nationally, to encourage lenders to try it with the additional burden of identifying where the lender or the borrower is in relation to Scotland will add an even greater burden. I think that on reflection he will see that. For those reasons, we would still ask for the amendment to be withdrawn.