Employment: Tourism and Hospitality

Baroness Billingham Excerpts

Monday 16th December 2013 Lords Chamber

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My noble friend should not tempt me on these matters.

[Baroness Billingham (Lab)]

Is the Minister aware that the Government have at their disposal the most wonderful Christmas present they could give to millions of people, young and old, in this country and also for tourism, which could increase by up to 10%? I am speaking, of course, of the need to introduce a lighter evenings Bill into this House. It is an opportunity that ought not to be missed and the nation would be truly grateful.

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

I would very much like to grant the noble Baroness a Christmas present but it would not be the one she has in mind. In Scotland and Northern Ireland there are very considerable and enduring concerns about this matter. I think your Lordships would expect these matters to be dealt with by a consensus across the United Kingdom—I stress, the United Kingdom.