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Compensation Bill [HL]

We are of one mind in that no side of the Committee wishes to create additional hurdles which may prevent an individual having access to justice or, as just described by the noble Earl, being able to defend himself or his organisation. However, I think that the noble Earl understands that although this may look simple, in the hands of lawyers—not necessarily clever lawyers, but lawyers who always seek certainty—it creates an additional problem and therefore an additional need to take legal advice. That, I think, is what the noble Earl was really saying: ““Please do not make it more difficult for people to organise their activities””. Perhaps I may correct the noble Earl on one point. I would like to see a good Clause 1. We have made that clear throughout our deliberations. We all want to see a good clause, although I agree that the noble Lord, Lord Goodhart, has expressed his reservations about it, and various groups such as the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers have said that the Bill would be better off without it. That is the view not only of lawyers, but also of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Insurance and Financial Services. However, other all-party groups have said that it is important. That is why it is vital to get this right. However, I believe that the Minister has given us a clear exposition at least of her intentions here. In the circumstances, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.