Health Bill

I will have another go. This clause was put into the Bill in this form following cross-party agreement in the other place. It reflects a wish to have a public consultation. The normal arrangements for a public consultation under Cabinet Office guidelines are that it lasts three months. That is a long-established convention. That is the basis on which we will carry out this consultation. I have said that I and my colleagues will look again at the point that the noble Lord has raised. However, even if the Bill stays as it is, any change in the age would require secondary legislation, which would be subject to the affirmative procedure in both Houses of Parliament.