Crossrail Bill

I thank the noble Lord for that answer. We will consider before Report whether there is enough scrutiny to see whether the money that will be spent will be publicly scrutinised and transparent. I am still somewhat concerned. I think that the legislation on the business rate probably will get through, but the Queen’s Speech is fairly late—in December—and there is an enormous so-called legislative programme planned for next year. Because the financing of Crossrail was based on the deal that was announced by the previous mayor, which a lot of people supported, there is a bit of putting the cart before the horse. We support Crossrail and want to see it happen, but the money has to be available to do it. I have been surprised the whole time that this was going forward before legislation was in place to fund it. I note what the Minister said and will see how the legislation progresses in the next year. It puts a little doubt in mind about Crossrail’s funding. Perhaps we shall come back to it, but for today I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Clause 66 agreed to. Clause 67 agreed to. Bill reported with amendments.