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Parliamentary Standards Bill

If the noble Lord begs leave to withdraw the amendment, I shall not be able to respond to his comments. His introductory remarks were entirely constructive; I hope that he did not think otherwise. He has identified what he considers to be a problem. He also said that the way forward that he suggested was not necessarily perfect but was an attempt to stimulate debate. We have had a very good debate. The combination of the various government amendments and the fact that we will oppose Clause 7 standing part of the Bill ought to provide considerable comfort. There is a real problem about this House seeking to determine procedures that properly fall to the other place to resolve. I have also suggested that, while the use of the word "fairness" seems attractive on the face of it, my advisers consider that there are problems with it. I am happy to take this matter away and institute discussions with the noble Lord, who has much expertise. However, I do so without commitment.