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Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Bill

When this issue arose in Committee, it usefully exposed a flaw in the Bill which we thrashed out at the time. I am glad that the Government have been as good as their word, and I thank the Minister for returning with a sensible proposal that I am sure all members of the Committee will welcome. Extending the time within which prosecutions can be brought must not send local authorities the message that they can relax, and can delay investigation of breaches. The provision is not a way of buying them more time; it constitutes a recognition of the importance that we attach to effective enforcement. As the Minister has heard, there was considerable dissatisfaction with her Department in Committee. While that was articulated by Opposition Members, including me, I think that it was felt throughout the Committee. I am pleased to see the Minister here today, however, and I hope that the constructive way in which she approached the Committee’s deliberations on this issue will be reflected in more constructive consideration of other matters in relation to which concern about her Department was expressed in Committee.