Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill [HL]

Following correspondence with the Minister, I do not intend to move Amendments 178, 179 or 180. These points have been debated in Committee before and I agree with the noble Baroness that there is not much new to add. However, I do not wish this to be taken in any way as signalling our agreement to the wording of the Bill. We still maintain that the Secretary of State plays too prescriptive and overbearing a role in regional strategy under the provisions of this Bill. I trust that the Minister has taken our concerns fully on board and I look forward to discussing the matter further with her before the next stage; otherwise, we will most certainly return to these amendments on Report. Amendment 178 not moved.