---

Mental Health Bill [HL]

My Lords, I begin by thanking the noble Baroness for her kind words and courtesy. It is a pleasure to be able to find a resolution to differences whenever possible. The issue of the nearest relative was fully debated in Committee and on Report and, according to the normal practice of the House, it is unusual for us to debate it again today. However, in this exceptional case I am glad that the amendment has been tabled in a revised form because it gives me the opportunity to inform the House that, following a meeting with the noble Baroness, Lady Neuberger, we intend to take the amendment away and explore the issue further. I know that noble Lords will understand that the Government can give no guarantees on the outcome. In the light of this, I hope that the noble Baroness, supported by her noble friend Lady Barker and the noble Lord, Lord Williamson, will agree to withdraw the amendment.