Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill [HL]

I have two points. First, the point made by the noble Lord, Lord Greaves, on the transfer of powers is valid. If there is a true commitment to localism, different priorities clearly exist at different times depending on the make-up of the council. It is essential that that flexibility be maintained for local authorities in terms of which powers it hands over to economic prosperity boards at any one time. Secondly, I am heartened by the comments made by the Minister on the functions of the economic prosperity boards, specifically in relation to their use to levy tax. I was also heartened by how she addressed my concerns about non-financial and financial support that economic prosperity boards could give as part of Schedule 6. However, it is important that I look at the Minister’s response in detail, especially the reference to the Green Paper, to ensure that there is consistency. I apologise for the fact that I may not be here for the rest of this sitting. I have other commitments that, unfortunately, were scheduled long before this Committee day. However, my noble friend Lord Hanningfield will be leading for my party for the rest of the Committee, and my noble friend Lord Bates will assist. At this stage, however, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 189 withdrawn. Amendments 189A to 192A not moved. Clause 86 agreed. Clause 87: Funding Amendments 192B and 192C not moved. Clause 87 agreed. Clause 88 agreed. Clause 89: Change of name Amendment 192D not moved. Amendment 193 had been withdrawn from the Marshalled List. Clause 89 agreed. Clause 90: Changes to boundaries of an EPB’s area Amendments 193A to 193F not moved. Clause 90 agreed. Clause 91: Dissolution of an EPB’s area Amendments 194 to 194B not moved. Clause 91 agreed. Clause 92: Review by authorities: new EPB Amendments 194C and 194D not moved. Clause 92 agreed. Clause 93: Preparation and publication of scheme: new EPB Amendments 194E and 194F not moved. Clause 93 agreed. Clause 94: Requirements in connection with establishment of EPB Amendments 194G to 194J not moved.