David Norris (Independent)

My amendment is in the same area but different. The Labour Party's amendment would go quite a way in the direction of that of the Government because it still states "evidence shall not include questioning or expressing an opinion" in other areas and in certain ways. Mine would simply replace the words "shall not" with "may decline to". This meets the requirement the Minister stated last night he wished to defend, that is, to protect the rights of the chairperson giving evidence. He stated last night that he was very attracted to my amendment and I was very hopeful I would see a little asterisk indicating this like a token of affection. However, I do not see the asterisk and feel rather jilted. On the other hand, we made our point and it lodged with the Minister. He indicated he would seek further advice and place that advice before the House. I am not sure whether he was referring to the Attorney General or the Parliamentary Counsel but I am sure the Minister of State, Deputy Mansergh, will have reply for us.