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Further Education and Training Bill [HL]

I thank the noble Baroness, Lady Walmsley, for her support, as well as my noble friend Lord Eccles and my noble friend Lord Sheikh for his knowledgeable contribution. I also thank the Minister for his, as ever, courteous and thoughtful reply. I listened carefully, but I am afraid I was not persuaded by the argument. We simply do not understand why this has to happen, especially as the Secretary of State retains reserve powers. Although the Minister says that that simplifies the process, we think that it complicates it and moves decisions further away from direct accountability to the electorate. But for the moment, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. [Amendment No. 38 not moved.] Clause 13 agreed to. Clause 14 [Dissolution of further education corporations]: [Amendment No. 39 not moved.] Clause 14 agreed to. Clause 15 agreed to. Clause 16 [Directions]: On Question, Whether Clause 16 shall stand part of the Bill?