Public Bodies Bill [HL]

I thank my noble friend Lord Hunt and also the noble Lord, Lord Newton, for their support. I accept that there has been a lot of movement, particularly on the issues of independence and the limitations on ministerial powers. On the consumer landscape work that is being done, it will be the civil servants who draft the consultation and the responses to that and therefore guidance to them to have regard to functions will be very important. I will return to this matter when we debate Clause 8, which specifies what needs to be considered. In the mean time, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 4 withdrawn. Schedule 1 : Power to abolish: bodies and offices Amendment 5 Schedule 1 : Power to abolish: bodies and offices Amendment 5 Moved by