The Government has been defeated in the House of Lords this evening over its controversial lobbying bill, despite offering concessions following criticism from charities.
Commenting on the defeat, Liz Hutchins, Friends of the Earth senior campaigner said:
“The Government’s heavy defeat on the issue of staff costs reflects the strength of concern about the Lobbying Bill in the House of Lords.
“Over 130 charities and campaigning organisations and 160,000 people backed a petition for the amendment.
“But this is still a dangerous Bill which will stop charities from raising genuine concerns ahead of general elections.
“Ministers must think again before this bill becomes law.”
