Compensation Bill [HL]

Yes, of course, and I shall suggest to Nick Way, Director General of the Historic Houses Association that he gets in touch with the Minister. It echoes the plea of my noble friend Lord Lucas: that there must be a way of guiding judges and giving them an indication which would make their decisions more certain. At least there would be a generally accepted background to their decisions. On drink and drugs, the amendment would send a clear signal from the Committee and the House. I am concerned about the position on the run-up to Christmas. I read in the newspaper that one-third of motorists admit to drink driving and that one in six is likely to drive over the limit this Christmas. Having played a part in ministerial campaigns, I welcome the way in which the Government are seeking to get the message across. However, motoring groups say that the figures show that government anti-drink/drive campaigns are not working, particularly when two-thirds of motorists say that they are fine to drive even though they are over the legal limit. A total of 590 people died last year in drink-related accidents, the highest number since 1992. It is therefore a rising problem. We have had an interesting and helpful debate and I hope that the Minister will reflect on several points raised. In the mean time, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.