Press Matters

Lord Inglewood Excerpts

Tuesday 1st November 2016 Lords Chamber

[Lord Keen of Elie]

I entirely concur with the observations of my noble friend.

[Lord Inglewood (Con)]

My Lords, I declare an interest as an ex-chairman and a current non-executive director of a local newspaper. I recognise that there is still considerable disquiet right across the political spectrum about the matters being discussed. I therefore welcome a second look at all these matters. I also declare an interest as a farmer. My noble and learned friend said that during the period of consultation the long grass cannot grow, but the consultation period ends in the spring, when the long grass starts to grow again. I am concerned that it will be allowed to grow and grow. Can he confirm that the matter will be taken forward expeditiously thereafter?

[Lord Keen of Elie]

With respect to the observations of my noble friend, I point out that by the time this consultation ends it will not be spring in Scotland.