Yes, there would be a concern, notwithstanding the initial timetabling plan, that a variation would throw out the timetable. However, the Under-Secretary encouraged us earlier when she said that in no circumstances, notwithstanding a variation, would the entire investigation take more than two years, on the basis that the clock would not be put back to zero.

We are uncomfortable with the proposal. We have all made our comments fairly plain, and I hope that the Under-Secretary will give the matter some thought. I appreciate that provision has been made for her to consider reducing the timetable once the Bill is up and running and in view of investigations that have taken place.

I hope that plenty of attention will be brought to bear on the matter. It is important not simply in terms of the awkwardness involved for a company that is subject to a market investigation. The provision runs counter to the intention behind the Bill and may lead to less innovation and, therefore, less customer value.