4For section 5 of the [1972 c. 65.] National Debt Act 1972 there shall be substituted the following section—
(1)If a dispute arises between the Director of Savings and the holder of any stock registered in the register or a person claiming to be entitled to any such stock, the matter in dispute shall be referred in writing to a person (“the adjudicator”) appointed under section 84 of the Friendly Societies Act 1992.
(2)On a reference under the foregoing subsection the adjudicator may proceed ex parte on notice in writing sent by post to the Director of Savings, and may inspect the register and may administer oaths to any witnesses appearing before him, and his award on the matter in dispute shall be final and binding on all parties.”