HC Deb 18 July 1974 vol 877 cc835-6

Lords amendment: No. 5, in page 8, line 10, leave out "other organisations including".

Mr. Harold Walker

I beg to move, That this House doth agree with the Lords in the said amendment.

Mr. Deputy Speaker

It will be convenient with this amendment to take also Lords Amendment No. 6, in page 8, line 11, after "authorities" insert: and such other organisations, including professional bodies the activities of whose members are concerned with matters relating to any of the general purposes of this Part".

Mr. Walker

The Government accepted Lords Amendment No. 5 when presented in another place as a useful provision since it makes clear that the Secretary of State is expected to consult appropriate professional organisations when appointing non-industrial members of the commission. It achieves in general terms what some hon. Members tried to achieve in respect of industrial professional organisation by amendments which I had to resist on the ground that they were too specific.

Mr. Madel

I thank the Minister for meeting us. He said that he would introduce an amendment to cover the point in another place. I hope that the professional bodies to which he referred will be ready for the consultation promised in the amendment. I have in mind the medical profession, industrial safety officers and others who made strong representations that they should be consulted. I hope that they are ready for such consultation.

Question put and agreed to.

Subsequent Lords amendments agreed to.

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