---

Business Rate Supplements Bill

I can only reiterate that the amendments that we are debating will have no effect on the current position in the ports. I am sure that there will be ample opportunity on other occasions to discuss and debate that further. Having explained why we cannot agree to the amendments, I must remind hon. Members that the Speaker has designated the amendments involving privilege. If hon. Members vote to overturn amendments 11 and 12, the reason for the disagreement must, in accordance with the House's practice, involve privilege. That is in no way intended to criticise the quality of debate on those matters in the other place. I have commended that, and do so again now. I hope that I have tackled the issues that were raised and demonstrated why I disagree with the amendments on principle. I hope that the House will reject amendments 11 and 12.