Brendan Ryan (Labour)

I move amendment No. 4:

In page 6, subsection (1), line 42, after "hub" to insert "and shall as soon as may be publish the reason for making such an order".

I am wary of Ministers being able to change boundaries without scrutiny and accountability. I do not wish to launch into a discussion on planning and re-zoning matters, but to leave the power to extend the border of the digital hub entirely in the hands of the Minister without some level of accountability – and I am prepared to debate the level of accountability – is unwise, in the light of what we know about the pressures and inducements that come the way of Ministers. My amendment requires that the reason for making such an order be published as soon as may be. Otherwise the whole thing could be done quietly and in private.