Greater London Authority Bill

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his intervention, but I do not think that it requires a response. In Committee, the Minister said:"““The two-thirds majority requirement on assembly amendments to the Mayor’s final budget in particular remains appropriate.””" That was a bold statement, but as far as I can recall, arguments to substantiate it, especially given the scale of precept increases seen by Londoners, were noticeably absent. The Minister went on to say:"““Otherwise, allowing the assembly to amend the final budget—like the draft budget—by a simple majority would alter the balance of power at the GLA radically. It would weaken the position of the Mayor, and it could be a recipe for confusion.””" Again, that was a bold statement, but it was not backed up with any argument. Of course, the balance of power at the GLA is being radically altered by the Government. The Mayor is getting extra powers, some of which are from central Government, which is to be welcomed, while some, as we will hear when we debate the new clauses on planning, are being taken away from local authorities. The balance of power is already being altered, in the Mayor’s favour, so additional powers of oversight and scrutiny for assembly members are therefore required. Finally, the Minister said about the arrangements:"““That something is tried and tested does not mean that it cannot be improved.”” ––[Official Report, Greater London Authority Public Bill Committee, 9 January 2007; c. 77-79.]" That is the purpose of the new clause—to improve the arrangements and provide greater scrutiny. Londoners would agree on the need for an improved budget process that would stop the annual hike in the Mayor’s precept or at least make it much more visible, so that people can make a clear and conscious decision about whether to support what the Mayor is doing. The Government have not deployed convincing arguments in favour of granting the Mayor special privileges in relation to his budget. Therefore, even at this late stage, the Minister could repent and recognise that increased mayoral powers must be offset by greater powers of scrutiny and financial control for the assembly. If he does not, I will press the matter to a Division on behalf of my party, and I understand that we will receive the support of Conservative Members in such a vote.