Budget Responsibility and National Audit Bill [HL] Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateLord Strathclyde
Main Page: Lord Strathclyde (Conservative - Excepted Hereditary)Department Debates - View all Lord Strathclyde's debates with the HM Treasury
(13 years, 6 months ago)
Lords ChamberMay I ask the Leader of the House whether it is normal to make a speech like this on the Question whether the Bill do now pass?
It is unusual, but it is in order. I think that the noble Lord, Lord Eatwell, is about to wrap up his remarks, but he was being constructive and helpful.
I am indeed. It is appropriate to thank people, when a Bill has gone through in this co-operative manner, for what has been achieved.
I know that the Government think that this side of the House has taken a somewhat belt-and-braces approach to the independence of the OBR; I am sure that Sir Humphrey, or perhaps Sir Nicholas, does. However, it can do no harm to the OBR’s reputation to have a belt in place when the braces fail.
It is the Government’s responsibility now to ensure that this important experiment in economic governance is a success. We on this side wish Mr Chote and his team well.