Powers for Compact Commission creep closer

Finance | Tania Mason | 19 Jan 2009

The Commission for the Compact inched closer to getting statutory powers last month when Lord Best suggested in a House of Lords debate that it be included in the bill on local democracy currently winding its way through parliament.

During the second reading of the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill, Lord Best said: "In terms of possible additions to the Bill...this Bill could be the moment to put on statutory basis the role of the Compact Commissioner, who handles relationships between statutory bodies and the voluntary sector.

"I understand that the government are considering a new clause to give the commissioner powers to enhance this important role. Any further news on developments from the minister would be gratefully received."

In response, Baroness Andrews said: "In terms of the Compact, we are very well aware of the opportunity that the Bill might present. There is still a lot of consultation, because it is not simple, but we are talking to people about some of the implications and how best they might be addressed. I can give the noble Lord a qualified positive response."

Richard Corden, chief executive at the Commission for the Compact (pictured), said the minister's reply was encouraging. "You can tell when a minister really doesn't like an idea and has no intention of supporting it, and when they can see the merit of it but know that there are lots of obstacles that need to be overcome before it can happen.

"I think Baroness Andrews' response falls into the latter category."

The Committee stage of the Bill began this week.

Who's Who: Tania Mason | Richard Corden

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