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Commons Bill [Lords]

I am delighted that the hon. Gentleman has caught me, because I was about to sit down. We would not consider that the erection of a boundary fence cordoning off a development or the digging of a trench for foundations to be construction works. I have listened carefully to the hon. Gentleman’s points this afternoon and to his quotations from the guide that he alluded to earlier. The point is that construction—building—must be taking place. The erection of a fence, clearance works or digging exploratory boreholes would not be admissible. I know that he will not be pleased by our view, but I hope that I have at least clarified the situation. We have improved the Bill during our deliberations, and I have no hesitation in commending it to the House.