Strategic plans and annual reports

Amendment proposed (this day): 113, in clause 36,  page 25, line 29, at end insert—

‘(1A) When preparing the strategic plan the Commissioner must give consideration to any proposal submitted to the Commissioner from any Parliamentary Select Committee. If the Commissioner does not accept the Committee’s proposal the Commissioner must write to the relevant Committee explain the decision.”—(Diana Johnson.)

Question again proposed, That the amendment be made.

I remind the Committee that with this we are discussing the following:

Amendment 114, in clause 36, page 26, line 4, leave out “Secretary of State” and insert “Parliament”.

Amendment 107, in clause 36, page 26, line 12, at end insert—

‘(8) An annual report can also include observations and recommendations as to the adequacy, efficacy and co-ordination of measures, policies and performance of relevant services including public authorities as specified in Clause 37 section 5 or under relevant devolved powers.”

Amendment 115, in clause 36, page 26, line 13, leave out subsection (9).

Amendment 116, in clause 36, page 26, line 18, leave out “Secretary of State may” and insert

“Commissioner must consult with the Secretary of State and”.

It is good to see you back in the Chair, Mr Crausby. We have had an interesting debate, and all right hon. and hon. Members will appreciate that that is important, given Parliament’s role in scrutinising the anti-slavery commissioner’s work. We have been able to put forward our arguments, and I was particularly pleased that my hon. Friend the Member for Foyle spoke about his amendment and the amendments in my name and those of my hon. Friends. We still believe that the relationship between the commissioner and Parliament could be improved, but we have listened to what the Minister has said, and I am not minded at this stage to press the amendment to a Division. I beg to ask leave to withdraw the amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Clause 36 ordered to stand part of the Bill.