§ Brought from the Commons; and read 1a.
§ Then, Standing Order No. XXXIX having been suspended:
§ 3.43 p.m.
§ LORD TEMPLEMOREMy Lords, I beg to move that this Bill be now read a second time. The principal object of this Bill is to make certain provisions regarding inscribed stock consequent on the removal from London of the stock transfer department of the Bank of England and other stock registers which I am informed took place some days ago. That removal will make impracticable the continuance of the method of transfer in the books which calls for the personal attendance of the transferor or of someone authorised by him and known to the Registrar. The Bill, therefore, provides that, during the continuance of the emergency, any holding of stock that is at present transferable in the books or register kept in Great Britain, shall not be transferable by that method but, instead, shall be transferable by instrument 1031 in writing. Under Clause 2 it is provided that since war conditions may make it impossible to pay coupons within the statutory period because of the interruption of communications, the period for payment may be extended.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(Lord Templemore.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2a: Committee negatived.
§ Bill read 3a, and passed, and a Message sent to the Commons to acquaint them therewith.