Public examination of bankruptN.I.
263.—(1) Where a bankruptcy order has been made, the official receiver may at any time before the discharge of the bankrupt apply to the High Court for the public examination of the bankrupt.
(2) Unless the High Court otherwise orders, the official receiver shall make an application under paragraph (1) if notice requiring him to do so is given to him, in accordance with the rules, by one of the bankrupt's creditors with the concurrence of not less than one‐half, in value, of those creditors (including the creditor giving notice).
(3) On an application under paragraph (1), the High Court shall direct that a public examination of the bankrupt shall be held on a day appointed by the Court; and the bankrupt shall attend on that day and be publicly examined as to his affairs, dealings and property.
(4) The following may take part in the public examination of the bankrupt and may question him concerning his affairs, dealings and property and the causes of his failure, namely—
(a)the official receiver,
(b)the trustee of the bankrupt's estate, if his appointment has taken effect,
(c)any person who has been appointed as special manager of the bankrupt's estate or business,
(d)any creditor of the bankrupt who has tendered a proof in the bankruptcy.
(5) If a bankrupt without reasonable excuse fails at any time to attend his public examination under this Article he is guilty of a contempt of court and liable to be punished accordingly (in addition to any other punishment to which he may be subject).