§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading, read.
THE EARL OF MORLEY,in moving that the Bill which had come up from the Commons, be now read the second time, briefly explained its objects. The main purpose of the measure was to render the existing law more elastic. Power would be given to the Home Secretary to vary the limits of the fishing districts. The 40th clause, which was the backbone of the measure, would enable the conservators of rivers to draw up by-laws and to alter the close time within certain limits. The by-laws would not be valid until approved by the Secretary of State, who might, if he thought fit, order an investigation before granting his consent. As the details could be better discussed in Committee he did not feel it necessary to enter into them on this stage.
§ Moved, "That the Bill be now read 2a." —(The Earl of Morley.)
856§ THE EARL OF MALMESBURYgave Notice that he would move Amendments in Committee.
§ Motion agreed to; Bill read 2a accordingly, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House on Monday next.