Transport (Wales) Bill

As noble Lords know, the Bill was introduced in the other place. If the Bill had been introduced in this House it would not have contained the money clause. The insertion of a money clause relates to procedures in the other place. When a Bill is introduced there, the House authorities need to indicate which provisions give rise to a potential increase in expenditure and so could not be discussed in Committee unless a money resolution covering them had been passed. A money clause such as Clause 15 is nothing other than a technical shortcut. The money clause is included because the Bill has the potential to increase expenditure. However, the Government have given a firm undertaking in the other place that there will be no increase in expenditure. Money is subject to scrutiny by the Assembly. The Assembly Minister responsible for transport, Andrew Davies, has announced an £8 billion, 15-year transport programme. I hope that the noble Lord is assured that no additional moneys will be given to the Assembly through the block grant for the measures contained in the Bill if and when it is enacted. I hope also that he is satisfied with my response. Clause 15 agreed to. Clauses 16 and 17 agreed to. Bill reported without amendment.