HL Deb 23 October 1985 vol 467 cc1205-6

543 Page 202, leave out lines 21 to 23.

544 Page 202, line 38, column 3. at end insert—

'In section 512(3), the words from "but no" onwards.
In section 515(5), the words from "but no" onwards.
In section 518(2), the words from "but no" onwards.'

548Page 203, column 3, leave out lines 37 to 39 and insert—

'Sections 611 to 615. Sections 616 to 618'.

549Page 203, line 42, column 3, at end insert—

'In section 622(7), the words from "but no" onwards.
In section 625(1), the words "with intent to defraud creditors of the company" and the words "with that intent".'

This amendment, No. 96, with the others, form a very large group of amendments. They consist essentially of drafting and technical amendments relating to winding up, bankruptcies and miscellaneous matters. The amendments improve upon and give greater clarity to the Bill, or involve the re-enactment of current provisions in insolvency legislation. Of course, I shall be quite happy should your Lordships so wish, to expand on any individual amendment. Otherwise, I do not think that it would be over-helpful to take up the time of the House by going into details on every matter.

However, there are six new amendments in this category: three consequential upon Commons Amendment No. 299, revised for the sake of greater clarity; a consequential amendment by the Bill to the Land Charges Act 1972; and the two amendments consequential upon Commons Amendment No. 388, which correct the title of the relevant official in Northern Ireland. Amendment No. 539A inserts a reference which is consequential upon Commons Amendment No. 539, which itself adds a new Part to Schedule 8 to the Bill in providing transitional provisions in relation to Clause 191 of the Bill. That deals with transactions defrauding creditors and, in itself, replaces Section 172 of the Law of Property Act.

The noble Lord, Lord Bruce of Donington, has tabled amendments to Amendment No. 386 which appear in this group. I do not know whether the noble Lord would like me to comment upon his amendments at this stage, or whether he would prefer to leave it until later. In view of his indication, I commend this large block of amendments to the House.

Moved, That the House do agree with the Commons in their Amendment No. 96—(Lord Lucas of Chilworth.)

On Question, Motion agreed to.