Climate Change Bill [HL]

I apologise most sincerely to my noble friend Lord Puttnam, who asked a specific question. Although I am not briefed on the matter, I can say that it is probably one of the most important activities in Defra. It is a small department but, as everyone knows and as will become more apparent as the weeks go by, we have severe budgetary difficulties for the forthcoming year. There is no denying that—and I am saying nothing that is new. However, it would be fatuous if I were to stand here and bring forward the flagship legislation for this Session which could not be funded. Both noble Lords have asked a fair question: will the Government be more explicit about the funding of the arrangements and duties they are bringing forward? I will seek a further briefing paper. Everything in the Bill and all the new amendments have been approved by the Treasury. That is the position. They would not be in front of us if the Treasury had said no. Indeed, some of the amendments that we are unable to accept deal with matters that we are discussing with our financial colleagues in Whitehall. Quite clearly, the Treasury is involved in every aspect of government, but these amendments were brought forward with its approval. It is incumbent on me to see whether I can produce another briefing note between now and Report—I cannot answer all the details because we would not have the information—on the financial implications for Defra and the Government. It will be a severe test for the Government in the other place if we do not have answers on the finance aspect. I am therefore grateful to noble Lords for raising the questions and apologise for not referring to them.