Digital Switchover (Disclosure of Information) Bill

We have had a long discussion about these issues. As I said, someone who is ““certified”” is certified blind by an ophthalmologist. To be registered blind, people must first be certified. At the risk of becoming certifiable in our circular and, at times, extraordinarily inward-looking discussion of an issue whose importance is not to be underestimated, may I remind hon. Members that they have had a chance to debate the issue? I hope that they all accept the Government’s undertaking not to be profligate with public money. Sometimes it is best to defer to experts, and our best advice is from Sense and the RNIB, which have provided an estimate of costs. It is not a blank cheque from the Government—there is no reason whatever to believe that it is—and we have made it clear for the benefit of local government and local authorities that are unnecessarily worried by the comments of the hon. Member for Wantage (Mr. Vaizey) that they have no cause to be anxious. We intend to honour our commitment to all organisations working with disadvantaged, disabled and particularly elderly people that, where appropriate, we will fund the scheme that we have introduced, as we have the means to do so. Of course, we will seek value for money, and there is no suggestion in any shape or form that the scheme should escape such a requirement. This is not a blank cheque but, none the less, we guarantee that the organisations we asked to undertake the work will not be financially disadvantaged as a result. Amendment agreed to.