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Banking Bill

I was quite specific. I indicated the valuer’s problems. He said that he was unable to get the information that he required. It is understandable that those who were interested in bidding for Northern Rock might not be too enthusiastic about disclosing information involving them. I hasten to add that the valuer is not a government nominee; he is an independent valuer. Of course, he is appointed through due process, but that happens with clear criteria for him to be an independent valuer. If he says that he is having difficulties with access to information, it is only right that the Treasury examine the matter. When he indicated that he could not get the information that he required, and that previous bidders and auditors were not as forthcoming as he had hoped, he asked for these additional powers. It is right that we grant them as expeditiously as we can.