Violent Crime Reduction Bill

moved Amendment No. 18:"Page 2, line 45, at end insert—" ““(6)   Nothing in this section affects the operation of section 127 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980 (c. 43) (limitation of time in respect of informations laid or complaints made in magistrates’ court).”” The noble Lord said: Government Amendments Nos. 18 and 165 to the drinking banning order provisions and the new clause amending anti-social behaviour legislation respond to the uncertainties created by the Boorman case, which was decided in November last year. The amendments clarify the time period in which a complaint can be made for a drinking banning order or anti-social behaviour order. The complaint will have to be made within six months of the criminal or disorderly conduct taking place. However, earlier behaviour outside the six-month period will be relevant to support an application—to show, for example, that there is a pattern of behaviour that the order is intended to address. I should stress that this new clause simply reflects the existing guidance in relation to ASBOs and is no more than a reflection of current practice. A consequential amendment has also been made for ASBOs in Northern Ireland. I beg to move. On Question, amendment agreed to. Clause 2, as amended, agreed to. Clause 3 [Orders in county court proceedings]: