HL Deb 12 October 1993 vol 549 cc177-8

[The page and line refer to Bill (146) as first printed by the Commons]

1 Clause 6, page 3, line 28, at end insert:

'(i)'.

2 Page 3, line 30, leave out 'and' and insert 'or

(ii) all or substantially all of whose activities appear to the Secretary of State to be conducted under an agreement, or in accordance with arrangements, made with a public body within paragraphs (a) to (n) or sub-paragraph (i) above or a person acting as servant or agent of the Crown,

and who'.

Earl Ferrers

My Lords, with the leave of the House, I beg to move that the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendments Nos. 1 and 2. These are almost drafting amendments. Their effect is to remove any uncertainty in the Bill as it was originally drafted as to whether it would extend to private sector organisations such as the training and enterprise councils, all or most of whose functions are of a public nature and are funded by government. The amendments will ensure that those bodies will have to produce Welsh language schemes.

I recall that my noble friends Lord Crickhowell and Lord Aberdare were particularly concerned about the possible impact of the Bill on voluntary organisations. The amendments will not apply to voluntary organisations. Neither will they affect privatised utilities. We have always been of the view that the Bill should not extend to those organisations. That remains the position.

Moved, That the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendments Nos. 1 and 2.—(Earl Ferrers.)

On Question, Motion agreed to.