Commissioner for Older People (Wales) Bill [HL]

had given notice of his intention to move Amendment No. 87:"Page 7, line 29, at end insert ““and the guidance must be approved by the Assembly””" The noble Lord said: I have listened carefully to my noble friend’s powerful arguments against Amendments Nos. 87 and 88. As I understand it, the legal status of guidance or codes of practice ranges from merely advisory, although statutory, to being clearly, fully and legally binding in all essentials. Under the Bill the guidance on best practice would appear to be merely advisory. If that is the case, it could be issued by the commissioner without any statutory authority. I fear that it will be seen to be merely a declaration of prime principles which may mean very little in practice. I shall study carefully what the Minister has said, consult with others and decide whether or not to bring back one or both amendments when the Bill comes before the House again. [Amendment No. 87 not moved.] [Amendment No. 88 not moved.] Clause 11 agreed to. Clause 12 [Power of entry and of interviewing in private]: