Commissioner for Older People (Wales) Bill [HL]

had given notice of his intention to move Amendment No. 8:"Page 1, line 15, leave out subsection (2)." The noble Lord said: My Lords, I speak to the amendment to give myself an opportunity of replying to the critique of the noble Lord, Lord Rowlands, which I very much appreciate. I understand his concern about accountability and clear lines. Having considered that, it is a matter to which we shall have to return when the new Bill is before us. I hope that there can be considerable discussion about how to widen devolution—I am sure that the noble Lord’s heart is in the right place. The amendment is not so much concerned about reporting to the Minister as to the inquiry that the Commissioner for Older People can carry out under Clause 2(3). It is a fact that the commissioner has strong powers to deal with devolved matters, but when he is considering non-devolved matters under Clause 2(3), his powers, like those of the Children’s Commissioner, will not be the strongest. In carrying out an inquiry to report to the National Assembly, he will not have powers to summon witnesses and to examine documents. Clearly the reports that he can make on non-devolved matters will be that much weaker as a result. The Minister should appreciate that I have not come here without having read the entire Committee deliberations, and I read what the noble Lord, Lord Rowlands, said. Before Third Reading, we should consider whether the powers of the Commissioner for Older People should be strengthened when he is considering non-devolved matters under Clause 2(3). I give notice that we may table amendments for that purpose. I appreciate that the Minister has already replied, and I am prepared not to move my amendment at this stage, unless he wishes to say more. [Amendment No. 8 not moved.] [Amendment No. 9 not moved.] Clause 3 [Review of discharge of functions]: