asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to name those who have been appointed to act as members of the Departmental Committee to investigate the question of endorsement of cheques; and to state the terms of reference.

My right hon. Friend has now set up a Committee with the following terms of reference: To consider (a) whether, and if so in what circumstances and to what extent, it is desirable to reduce the need for the endorsement of order cheques and similar instruments received for collection by a bank (b) what, if any, amendment of the Bills of Exchange Act, 1882, or other statutory provision should be made for this purpose; and to report. The following have accepted his invitation to serve on the Committee:

• Mr. A. A. Mocatta, O.B.E., Q.C. (Chairman),
• Lord Chorley, M.A., J.P.,
• Mr. A. H. Ensor,
• Mr. E. J. Partridge,
• Mr. W. K. M. Slimmings,

The Committee will, I understand, be starting its work shortly and will make an announcement when it is ready to receive evidence.

May I thank my hon. Friend most sincerely for his reply, and ask him whether he realises my gratitude at this partial salvage of a Private Member's Bill?

I should like to repeat the thanks which I know that my right hon. Friend has already conveyed to my hon. Friend for drawing attention to this important subject.