Local Transport Bill [HL]

I thought I had made it plain at the outset that the issue is one of ensuring that we have flexibility of approach. We want to try to develop governance arrangements in the locality that work for the locality. That is the most important objective. I understand what the noble Lord is trying to achieve. There will be more consultation on this and as yet we have not spelt out in sufficient detail what we have in mind. Clearly, that consultation will be very important. As I have said, those ITA arrangements can be made only following consideration of an affirmative order. There is much scope here before we get to a point where the structure of governance is finally determined. I shall reflect further on this debate, as I can see that there are areas of uncertainty. I want to ensure that the guidance fairly reflects what we seek to achieve as a policy objective and that there is flexibility that works for the locality. We are not trying to impose or to constrain; we are trying to develop models of governance that are effective, which is why we think it is worth preserving the opportunity for ITAs to have independent, non-elected members with that broader experience. Some Members of the Committee might disagree with that, but I believe that it would bring some benefits. If the models from local government, like the operation of police authorities and so on, are of value, something similar may work for ITAs.