Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill

I thank the Minister for offering his explanations. We on these Benches are very keen to support anything that offers more independence to this body, and shows that it has independence. It is a little difficult to see why not having to give guidance makes it more independent than being able to give it directions, but I understand what the noble Lord says about the reserved powers—that the Secretary of State must in the final analysis be able to give directions. In the mean time, we will consider what he has said and I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Clause 25 [Directions]: On Question, Whether Clause 25 shall stand part of the Bill?