§ 35 Clause 15, page 15, line 15, leave out from 'include' to second 'or' in line 16 and insert 'power to advise or assist—
- (a) any constable;
- (b) any officer commissioned or other person appointed or authorised by the Commissioners of Customs and Excise to exercise any function conferred on the Commissioners by the said Act of 1976; or
- (c) any person duly authorised by the Secretary of State under section 7(3) of that Act,
§ 5.38 p.m.
§ The Earl of AvonMy Lords, I beg to move that this House doth agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 35. It is linked with Amendment No. 43. These amendments seek to make clear what we see as the Nature Conservancy Council's contribution to the enforcement of wildlife legislation. The council will have the power to provide advice and assistance to any person who is enforcing the 1976 Act, or any of the provisions of the first part of this Bill. This would not, however, prevent the council where they consider it appropriate, and have the capacity, from providing scientific assistance and advice to other bodies or individuals; but they will not be compelled to do this. I should like to assure the House that the amendment would not stop or hinder the Nature Conservancy Council from advising the voluntary bodies. Advice would be limited to circumstances where they consider it appropriate and have the capacity. I beg to move.
§ Moved, That this House doth agree with the Commons in the said amend ment.—(The Earl of Avon.)
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.