Finance Bill

We have had a very good debate. It has certainly been well worth probing issues on charities, public authorities and building renovation. I particularly appreciated the contribution of the shadow Chief Secretary, which was less partisan than in the past and added much to the debate and consideration of the issues. I apologise to the right hon. Member for Cardiff South and Penarth (Alun Michael). During his two interventions on me I failed to acknowledge his significant contribution to the voluntary sector over many years. I should have taken the opportunity to acknowledge his sterling work for the third sector and the voluntary sector. The hon. Member for Wrexham (Ian Lucas) added a great deal in terms of some of the material he referred to, particularly from his constituency, but his speech was disappointingly partisan. I am rather surprised by that on the day when Lord Mandelson let the cat out of the bag on Labour's defence that they would not have introduced a VAT increase after the election. It must be rather difficult for Labour Members to swallow this evening, given all the butter that is not melting in their mouths. The Exchequer Secretary said that he will keep a number of issues under review, which is encouraging. I shall certainly be pressing him and Treasury Ministers to ensure that they do so for the three issues that have been raised in the debate. As I indicated earlier, I intended the amendments to be probing, as they have been, so I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Amendment proposed: 35, in clause 3, page 2, line 11, at beginning insert 'Subject to subsection (3A) below,'.—(Mr Byrne.) Question put, That the amendment be made. The Committee divided: Ayes 243, Noes 321.