I am not sure that the noble Lord’s assertion about the first consultation not supporting our position is right. It does not necessarily depend upon a prescribed list of any sort. The key
point about our amendments is that they are linked to clear criteria that have to be satisfied before any change could be introduced. There are criteria around not increasing burdens and bureaucracy, representing demonstrable improvement on existing legislative requirements, and clarity and precision as to whom they apply. The two amendments sit together. The consultation that has just been gone through proves how difficult it is to have a list of high-risk activities. I struggle to understand what changes the Government could make to that process or outcome to make it fit for purpose. That is not just my view; it is the view of a raft of people who know health and safety and business far better than I do, the CBI included.
3.45 pm
Can I specifically understand where the Government are on this? The Minister said that he was hopeful the Government would be able to come forward with something before Third Reading. I am not quite sure what that something is. Will it be a policy statement, revised draft regulations or further amendments to Clause 1? I am not sure quite what he has in mind. His answer will determine what we do with this amendment. In any event, whatever the Minister is going to bring back, I hope that it can be agreed now that this would not preclude a further round of this at Third Reading under the provisions in the Companion. Can the Minister say something further about what he hopes to bring back before Report?