Armed Forces Bill

As I said a moment ago, the explanatory notes are silent on that. Perhaps when he sums up, my hon. Friend the Minister will give us some indication of how strongly the Government feel about a matter that I am sure will be closely scrutinised by the special Select Committee. Perhaps at that stage some arguments will be advanced in its favour or perhaps my hon. Friend the Minister will be able to tell us tonight that the Government have an open mind and may table a modest amendment at either the Select or Standing Committee stage. Along with my colleagues on the Defence Committee, I shall follow closely the progress of this long-awaited and very important Bill.