Regulatory Enforcement and Sanctions Bill [HL]

It says ““05”” on my brief; I am so sorry about that. I think that the oldest Act on my list is from 1874. I just wanted to get this on the record, because it shows how difficult it is for government. The Answer stated: "““A record of all powers of entry is not maintained centrally. In July 1983 the Prime Minister agreed that the Home Office, together with the then Scottish Home and Health Department and Northern Ireland Office should take responsibility for scrutinising proposals to create or re-enact powers of entry their home jurisdiction. Any new proposed power of entry is required to be submitted to the respective home department for consideration. Appendix A to the Guide to Legislative Procedure published by the Cabinet Office in June 2001 sets out the criteria for scrutiny of powers of entry. That guidance applies to both public and private legislation for which departments are responsible, including subordinate legislation. In England and Wales, those exercising a power of entry must have regard to Code of Practice B issued under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 in addition to any requirements set out in the primary legislation granting the power.—[Official Report; 23/11/05; col. WA 219.]" The Minister said that everything will be done by November. Would it not be a good idea to have legislation in the Queen’s Speech? As nowadays that is normally written in July, we will have two or three months to get things together. I confirm, as I have said to the noble Lord, Lord West, that I and everyone with whom I am associated will help in any way. Much of this information originated from the Committee of London Clearing Banks, when every clearing bank had approximately 3,000 branches in the United Kingdom. We all consulted together at a time when only 30 per cent of people had bank accounts. The point that the noble Lord, Lord Hodgson, made about people’s fear over the transfer of their information to third parties is very real. While the suggestion that the Government are looking at the matter is right and proper, we should separate out the powers of the police, the security services and the Revenue and Customs and concentrate all the other powers. Every day people are entering other people’s houses without the necessary authorisation, as the noble Lord will know from press articles. It is a serious issue and I would be grateful if speedy action could be taken. I shall withdraw all the amendments I have mentioned. I cannot remember which ones they are; they go all the way through the Marshalled List. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. [Amendments Nos. 103B to 103K not moved.]