Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I move amendment No. 15:

In page 58, subsection (1), line 45, after "oath" to insert "or affirmation".

This is a very simple and straightforward amendment which is not strictly necessary. It simply seeks to insert the words "or affirmation" after "oath". I know the law allows affirmations as well as oaths and the Minister may say it is not strictly necessary - if I can pre-empt what he will say - by virtue of the Oaths Act 1888 and the Interpretation Act 2005. However, it would be welcome clarification and improvement of the Bill. As a more general principle, the Labour Party has consistently mentioned the need to say, "oath or affirmation." It would not add very much by way of word count to the text of the legislation but it would present a more inclusive message that persons would not have to swear an oath but may swear an affirmation instead.