Child Poverty Bill

Absolutely. It makes a complete joke of the word. There are other concerns. The Committee discussed whether clause 15 will be a get-out clause for the Government in future. We clearly have to set priorities for the time we are living in. I might as well mention Trident again, because that seems to be more of a priority for the Government than eradicating child poverty. There is not time to talk about many other things, but I emphasise that the minimum wage is far too low. We need it to be a living wage, and there is some good work being done on that in London, Glasgow and elsewhere. I want the Government to be a bit stronger on that, because it would surely go a huge way towards eradicating child poverty. Finally, I appeal to the Government to work with the Scottish authorities in taking these matters forward. Westminster clearly needs to take— Debate interrupted (Programme Order, 20 July). The Deputy Speaker put forthwith the Question already proposed from the Chair (Standing Order No. 83E), That the Bill be now read the Third time. Question agreed to. Bill accordingly read the Third time and passed, with amendments.