---

Rating (Empty Properties) Bill

I note the Minister’s comment. I remember a famous interview between Sir Robin Day and Sir John Nott, in which Sir John Nott took off the microphone and marched out when he was accused of being a ““here today, gone tomorrow”” politician. Between the time when the Bill is passed and the regulations are made by statutory instrument, we may have a fresh—or older—face; I do not know. The Minister may even retain his job. There is concern, however, that a change of personnel will mean that the regulations will be brought in by a different individual. The Opposition have therefore tabled a detailed amendment that would put the provisions in such regulations on the face of the Bill. If I may, I will go through my hon. Friend’s amendment in detail. It states:"““Clause 1, page 1, line 2, at beginning insert—""(1) In section 45(1)(c) of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 (c. 41) (unoccupied hereditaments: liability) after ““year”” insert—""““(ca) none of the conditions””—"