Question proposed, That the clause stand part of the Bill.

I shall be brief, because the sitting is lurching towards a conclusion.

It is now.

Thank you.

When I asked about the definitions of the terms ''officer'' and ''police force'' in this part of the Bill, the Minister was kind enough to say that he would look again at the position of Her Majesty's Customs and Excise, which is a relevant consideration. I also referred to the security services, and I hope that he will elucidate their position. However, there are many other investigative bodies in the context of government, some of which have powers of arrest, while others do not. It is important that we are clear about which bodies and officers of the state have powers under the Bill. For instance, what is the position as regards an investigation on Crown land that is in the possession of the Ministry of Defence? I assume that Ministry of Defence police would be officers under the definition in the clause, but I would like that clarified. Military police might also be involved, but I am not sure that they would be covered by the clause.

The definitions of the terms ''officer'' and ''police force'' raise complexities that have not been addressed. At some stage, the Minister might like to elucidate those terms by providing a schedule that sets out which investigative forces have powers under this part of the Bill and which are forbidden from investigating an individual's activities. He may intend only someone with the office of constable to have such powers, but it would be helpful to know.

I gladly undertake to look into the hon. Gentleman's points, and I shall respond to him and to other Committee members in writing.

Question put and agreed to.

Clause 80 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Further consideration adjourned.—[Mr. Heppell.]

Adjourned accordingly at seventeen minutes to Seven 'clock till Thursday 23 January at ten minutes past Nine o'clock.