§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
931§ THE PAYMASTER-GENERAL (LORD ARNOLD)My Lords, this is an Annual Bill. As I think your Lordships will recall, the Second Heading of the Bill is usually accompanied by a speech of not more than a moment's duration. It has been adjudged that if there are points to be raised upon it, the most convenient opportunity is on Committee stage. I have made inquiries through the usual channels and so far I have not heard that noble Lords in any quarter of the House are desirous of raising points upon this Bill; but if they should wish to do so, the Committee stage will be open to them. In the circumstances, as there is important business awaiting your Lordships I do not propose to say anything more now, but beg to move that the Bill be read a second time.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(Lord Arnold.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2a, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House.