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Digital Economy Bill [HL]

My Lords, we have been through Clause 1 in some detail. In summary, we on these Benches are concerned that this clause will inhibit Ofcom’s ability to perform its current duties effectively while at the same time failing to achieve what the Government proclaim they are seeking to do. I am afraid that after listening to the responses to the previous groups of amendments, I remain unconvinced. If these new secondary duties have any effect on Ofcom at all, and are not just ignored, they would seem to be negative. I therefore oppose the Question that this clause should stand part of the Bill.