Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill

Lord Brabazon of Tara Excerpts

Tuesday 24th May 2011 Lords Chamber

I am not deaf: I heard the Government’s response to this amendment before it was even tabled, and I know that they are concerned about pilots. Therefore, perhaps my most important question to the Minister is whether, if piloting ceases to commend itself, the Government can find another way of testing, assessing and evaluating the model. London cannot be regarded as a pilot. We have had reference in the debate to the number of letters received by the mayor’s office when the current mayor took over responsibility for policing. However, London is not like the rest of the country, so I hope that that is not used as an argument against. I am sure the Minister will agree that we want evidence-based policy, not policy-based evidence. I beg to move.

[The Chairman of Committees (Lord Brabazon of Tara)]

I have to inform the Committee that, if this amendment is agreed to, I cannot call Amendment 218.

Amendment 27 (to Amendment 26) not moved.