---

Violent Crime Reduction Bill

I am grateful to the Minister for his response. However, he appeared to be describing a parallel service whereby the local authority will look at specific individuals and assess them for their needs. He has not told me—and I would like clarity on this point—whether they will provide a report for the decision maker, whether it is a magistrate or a civil judge, to have before him when he sets out the various prohibitions that he wishes to impose in a drinking banning order. If I could have assurance that guidance would be to the effect that a judge must consider whether a report is necessary and call for it there would not be any need for me to pursue the amendment. But as it stands and in the absence of any further assurance, it is a matter that I shall pursue. Perhaps the Minister would like to consider it between now and Report.