The Minister satisfied me by mentioning banknotes that might have traces of drugs on them. That was the point to which I was referring. If banknotes are to be retained as exhibits in a trial, there is reason to have them available.

The Minister has reassured me about the aim of the provision. It might have been made clearer if subsection (2) had mentioned using cash as exhibits. Perhaps he will consider the matter. I have looked at the Government amendment to clause 300, and as he rightly says, it provides a further safeguard. I ask him

to reconsider whether the wording would be clearer if exhibits were mentioned as an example of—although not as the exclusive reason—why cash might be retained. We may return to the issue, and the Government should consider tabling a further amendment. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Amendments made: No. 446, in page 171, line 17, at end insert—

'( ) In the case of cash detained under section 294 which was seized under section 293(1A), the customs officer or constable must, on paying it into the account, release the part of the cash to which the suspicion does not relate'.

No. 447, in page 171, line 18, after 'cash' insert

'or, as the case may be, the part to which the suspicion relates'.—[Mr. Bob Ainsworth.]

Clause 295, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.