Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill

moved Amendment No. 101:"Page 52, line 20, at end insert—" ““(3A)   In making appointments to the Commission, the Secretary of State shall have regard to the desirability of appointing at least one person who has experience of, and has shown some capacity in, the affairs of local authorities in promoting and meeting rural needs. (3B)   In making an appointment under sub-paragraph (3A), the Secretary of State shall have regard to any views expressed by persons appearing to him to represent local authorities.”” The noble Baroness said: My Lords, I move this amendment on behalf of my noble friend Lord Renton of Mount Harry, who, unfortunately, could not be with us at this stage of the Bill. Proposed new subsection (3A) in the amendment would require the commission to bear in mind local authorities in promoting and meeting rural needs. That nearly overlaps with what is to follow shortly. Proposed subsection (3B) states:"““In making an appointment under sub-paragraph (3A), the Secretary of State shall have regard to any views expressed by persons appearing to him to represent local authorities””." I beg to move.