Baroness Featherstone (LD)

My Lords, I really think that that was a marvellous maiden speech. The Minister has a most exquisite voice as well, which gives her a bit of an advantage. I know that she is on our side on this. Given that my noble friend on the Front Bench mentioned that I was the originator and architect of the same-sex marriage law when I was a junior Minister—the only Lib Dem, surrounded by Conservative Ministers, when I got the idea of doing that—and now it is the law, I say to the Minister: I want her to be me and push this in her department, and in the education department. I just thought that was marvellous. I did not feel the same about the Conservative French Bench response, which was incredibly disappointing. I also feel that it is like clinging to a sinking ship if you do not change or move forward, saying that three hours are it for ever. The world is changing; if we do not get with it and prepare for it, then just clinging to the old ways will not enhance our status in the world. We will not remain top of anything if we do not change our ways—and we are having enough trouble as it is. I thank all noble Lords, because it was a wonderful debate. It was like stirring stories for creatives. If it was left to us in this Chamber the world would be a better place, but sadly there are a few other influences. So we have work to do, but I give thanks to all noble Lords for their wonderful creations. The Creative Education Access Bill is not simply an arts policy; it is a statement about the future well-being of our nation. My heartfelt thanks to all of you.