Violent Crime Reduction Bill

I listened carefully to my noble friend’s response. I understand, as I am sure my colleagues do, that he cannot pre-judge what will emerge from the consultation, but I would be amazed if, at the conclusion of that exercise, he was not convinced of the logic that lies behind this amendment. If that is not the case, then we can return to this issue at Report. I assure my noble friend that we will be looking very carefully at what emerges from the consultation. I thank him for his thoughtful approach and those who have contributed to the debate. In anticipation of a successful conclusion, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Clauses 18 and 19 agreed to. Clause 20 [Offence of persistently selling alcohol to children]: