Localism Bill

I am grateful for that and will certainly do so on that assurance. I clearly put these down as probing amendments. On the timing, having listened to the discussion I agree with the noble Lord, Lord True, that it ought to be down to the local authority. If they want to call a referendum immediately, they out to be able to do so. It may well be an issue that will be dead in 12 months anyway. On the other hand, the wording ought not to preclude having the referendum on the same day as the next round of elections, as far as fixed elections are concerned—general elections now appear to be fixed but we will see—so long as they are not more than 12 months away. It may well be that some authorities that do not elect their council every year will not have an election within 12 months. Those that do ought to be able to have it on that day if that is what they think best on the principles set out by the noble Lord, Lord True. I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 128S withdrawn. Clause 51 agreed. Clause 52 : Date of referendum Clause 52 : Date of referendum Amendments 128T to 128W not moved. Clause 52 agreed. Clause 53 : Publicity for and in relation to local referendum Amendment 128X Clause 53 : Publicity for and in relation to local referendum Amendment 128X Moved by