I remind the hon. Gentleman that we are debating new clause 1 rather than Second Reading. As I did not participate in the Committee proceedings, I wanted to give some background to my thoughts on new clause 1, but I shall address it directly. Does my hon. At this stage of my speech, however, I am suggesting that, as there is much common ground, that may be a reason for the Government to move towards the Opposition on new clause 1.
Friend helpfully traces the background to our discussion.
I have a characteristically non-partisan observation. Of course, my hon. Friend is right to refer to our right hon. Apparently, that did not occur to our right hon. Friend is right.