§ [SECOND READING.]
§ Order of the day for the Second Reading read.
LORD WOLVERTONMy Lords, this is a useful but a highly technical Bill, and one which has been framed by the Board of Trade to carry into effect the recommendations of a Select Committee appointed in 1898. The Committee was presided over by my noble friend Lord Cross, and among other members of the Committee was the noble Earl the Leader of the Opposition. The first six sections carry out the recommendations contained in the Report of that Committee. The provision as to the compulsory acquisition of land for generating stations was very strongly urged by the Joint Committee of the two Houses. It will be noticed that one of the sections removes the existing veto of local authorities, but preserves their right to be heard. With the exceptions of the provisions I have mentioned the clauses are all of an administrative character, and as the Bill will be referred to a Select Committee 1289 of your Lordships' House I do not think I need on this occasion say more in moving the Second Reading.
§ Moved, "That the Bill be now read2ª." —(Lord Wolverton.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2ª, and referred to a Select Committee.