Consumers, Estate Agents and Redress Bill [Lords]

I feel strongly that delay is the best mechanism for ensuring that water is protected for the consumer. The hon. Member for Rutland and Melton appeared to be enthusiastic about the Minister’s proposal. On timing, Postwatch comes immediately to mind. The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry will shortly provide the results of the consultation on the compulsory closure of 2,500 Post Office branches. I understand that in the other place, the Government gave assurances that the Bill provides for the new NCC to investigate any matters relating to the number and location of public post offices. However, the Bill uses the word ““may”” and avoids ““shall””. The notion of going through a minimum of 2,500 Post Office branch closures with a consumer body that only ““may”” consider the matter, and is not required to do so, is discouraging. I hope that in Committee the Government will reconsider the idea of using the word ““shall”” instead of ““may””.