Derek McDowell (Labour)

Although I discussed the amendment in my name, which I moved, I did not address the other amendments and wish to do so before the Minister of State replies. I am sitting here in bewilderment listening to colleagues on the IBEC side of the argument. This is unreal. On one hand, they are stating that information and consultation is a wonderful proposal, that it is good practice and that all organisations should already have it in place. They are stating that we all talk to our employees, which of course is good and fine, and that they all are happy. On the other hand, however, they are taking every possible measure to ensure that the mechanism, however restrictive, becomes even more restrictive so that it is not used at all in most cases. Either this is a right and a good practice or it is not. Colleagues are stating that it is a good practice while also trying to make it as difficult as possible. They are talking about mischievous intent and trouble-making. It is information and consultation. It is a basic right. I am bewildered by the thrust of the argument and, with due respect to colleagues, of course one knows from where it comes. Either they accept that there is such a right or they do not. If they accept that such a right exists, then let us make it easy to exercise and put in place a fair framework within which this can be done.