Sustainable Communities Bill

The process will go on until Parliament says otherwise. I understand why the hon. Gentleman asks his question because new clause 1(5) states:"““The Secretary of State must issue””—" I inserted the word ““must”” at the request of the Committee for the purpose of clarity, although legislation usually includes the word ““may””, even when the Government intend that something must be done—"““the first invitation under this section within the period of one year””." The word ““first”” should reassure the hon. Gentleman. It is proposed that reports be produced at least annually. I want to create a framework based on the Bill that will give local authorities a clear process to allow them to say that they want consideration to take place. I will even call it the Hurd process, if it helps me to get the Bill through the House. I commend the Government amendments to the House and ask the hon. Gentleman to consider withdrawing new clause 6.