HL Deb 16 March 1909 vol 1 cc454-5

Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.

LORD WENLOCK

My Lords, on the Motion for the Second Reading of this Bill my noble friend Lord Ritchie has given notice to move that the Bill be read a second time this day six months; but I hope I may be able to disarm any opposition he may wish to offer by giving an undertaking, on behalf of the North Eastern Railway Company, that they are willing to alter the clauses to which the noble Lord takes exception. After conference with the Board of Trade and with other parties interested, we have decided to take out from Clause 37, page 19, line 18, the words— so that the same may ultimately become available as part of the Company's undertaking." I also undertake, on behalf of the company, to strike out Clause 38 (Power to company to subscribe to companies accepting leases). I hope that, having made these concessions, the noble Lord will be willing to allow the Bill to be read a second time.

Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.— (Lord Wenlock.)

LORD RITCHIE OF DUNDEE

My Lords, after the concessions which the noble Lord has expressed his willingness to make, I beg to withdraw the Amendment standing in my name.

LORD HAMILTON OF DALZELL

My Lords, the alterations which the noble Lord who has moved the Second Reading has referred to are those which have been arranged by the Board of Trade, and I hope that, as they have been agreed to by the promoters, your Lordships will give the Bill a Second Reading.

On Question, Bill read 2a and committed: The Committee to be proposed by the Committee of Selection.