Compensation Bill [HL]

My Lords, I beg to move that this Bill do now pass. In so doing, I want to fulfil a commitment that I gave on Report to reflect on the creation of the new Clause 2. Noble Lords, particularly the noble Lords, Lord Hunt of Wirral and Lord Goodhart, will know that I certainly agreed with the sentiment that lay behind the new clause but at that point could not accept it. In our previous deliberations the noble Lord, Lord Hunt, made a comment on Ministers who changed their minds. I think that it was meant to be complimentary. I took it as such. I recognise that it is a sign of maturity in anyone if they are able to reflect again and change their mind. Therefore, I am pleased to announce to the House that we shall accept the amendment as it stands. We will not seek to change it in any way. I am grateful to the noble Lords, Lord Hunt and Lord Goodhart, for showing me the way on this occasion. The Bill is an important contribution to a much wider programme of work. The Government are taking forward many other important initiatives, on which I am proud to lead, to tackle perceptions of a compensation culture and to improve the system for valid claims. I am extremely grateful to all noble Lords for the constructive spirit in which they have debated the Bill, which leaves your Lordships’ House in a better shape than when it arrived. Moved, That the Bill do now pass.—(Baroness Ashton of Upholland.)