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Digital Economy Bill [HL]

My Lords, I understand the important point that the noble Lord makes. The code is important because it introduces flexibility in way that the primary legislation cannot. That is why the primary legislation is bound to be somewhat starker and less sophisticated than the code can be, and addresses itself less to the nuances that the noble Lord has identified. I have indicated, though, that we are fully cognisant of that point. That is why the code will be important in the consideration of the Bill. I hope, though, that the noble Lord will appreciate that at this point we are not amending a code but dealing with the legislation. He will therefore see why I am reluctant to see changes to the Bill as drafted in circumstances where it has graduated elements. Nevertheless, we have certain principles that are essential if we are to reach the Bill’s objectives, and that is why I am against the amendments.