Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I move amendment No. 16:

In page 31, after line 43, to insert the following section:

"(5) It shall not be lawful to take action for the primary purpose of avoiding the application of this part.".

One of the important points pertaining to any legislation is that the very wide-ranging views heard during consultation, particularly in respect of an area such as that under discussion, be taken into consideration. Ultimately, legislation is better because of consultation.

This amendment proposes the following wording: "It shall not be lawful to take action for the primary purpose of avoiding the application of this part." Threshold recommended the introduction of a general anti-avoidance provision. I appeal to the Minister of State to look favourably on this amendment.