Consumer Credit Bill

The hon. Gentleman is right in the context of why I did not go into the definition of unfair lending and the unfairness test. As for the issue of guidance and support from the OFT, the response to points raised in both Houses was that it was thought best to give business some certainty about some of the practices that could be considered irresponsible lending practices, on the basis of the OFT’s ability to develop a process in the light of its experiences and its responsibility for determining whether people are fit to hold licences. I hope that Members in all parts of the House accept that the Government have listened and that we will discuss the issues with all the bodies that have helped to make this the Bill that it is—a Bill that is well respected and that has been subject to much consultation. I know that, given good will from Members, we shall achieve what we want to achieve.