Budget Responsibility and National Audit Bill [HL]

Lord Strathclyde Excerpts

Monday 7th February 2011 Lords Chamber

[The Countess of Mar]

May 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?

[The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Lord Strathclyde)]

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.

[Lord Eatwell]

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.