I am not sure how much more clearly I can express myself. We will not impose devolution on any area, but any area is free to come forward and negotiate with the Government to make a deal for the delivery of devolution if it wishes. Areas that do not choose to be part of devolution will not have anything taken away from them as a consequence, and when devolution is delivered, it will be about powers coming down. Local authorities will only see powers transferred up to a metro mayor when they opt for that to happen. I think I have made myself very clear on that important point.
There is one more important point that I want to make to Opposition Front Benchers, about amendment 4. It is imperative that when the conditionality amendment that was made in the other place is put forward, we are able to deliver on our manifesto commitments, and so that we can do that, the changes that the Government have proposed today need to be made.
3.22 pm
Two and a half hours having elapsed since the commencement of proceedings, the debate was interrupted (Programme Order, 14 October).
The Chair put forthwith the Question already proposed from the Chair (Standing Order No. 83D, That the amendment be made.
Question agreed to.
Amendment 29 agreed to.
The Chair then put forthwith the Questions necessary for the disposal of the business to be concluded at that time (Standing Order No. 83D).
Clause 1, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.
Clause 2 negatived.