§ 2.39 p.m.
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DEFENCE, ROYAL AIR FORCE (LORD WINTERBOTTOM)My Lords, I beg to move that this Bill be now read a second time. I understand that it has been agreed through the usual channels 673 that we should give the Bill a formal Second Reading so as to leave as much time as possible to debate the Motion standing in the name of my noble friend the Leader of the House. I would explain, however, that in the course of his speech later this afternoon my noble friend Lord Chalfont will be explaining to noble Lords the purpose of the Bill. Thus they will not be denied an opportunity to discuss it within the wider context of the Motion then before the House. Moreover, the Committee stage on the Bill will, of course, follow at a later date. I beg to move.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.—(Lord Winterbottom.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2a, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House.