§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES (LORD LUCAS)My Lords, this is a temporary measure to meet certain technical difficulties in carrying out works of arterial drainage which are of the utmost value and importance. Another thing about them is that they will afford suitable employment if there is any widespread unemployment during the war. It is necessary to get the Bill on the Statute Book as soon as possible, and I hope your Lordships will consent to pass it through all its stages to-day.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(Lord Lucas.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2a.
§ Committee negatived: Then (Standing Order No. XXXIX having been suspended) Bill read 3a and passed.