Hong Kong Ordinances

BILLS OF EXCHANGE ORDINANCE - SECT 20

Inchoate instruments

(1) Where a simple signature on a blank paper is delivered by the signer in
order that it may be converted into a bill, it operates as a prima facie
authority to fill it up as a complete bill for any amount, using the signature
for that of the drawer, or the acceptor, or an indorser; and, in like manner,
when a bill is wanting in any material particular, the person in possession of
it has a prima facie authority to fill up the omission in any way he thinks
fit. (Amended 31 of 1981 s. 65)

(2) In order that any such instrument, when completed, may be enforceable
against any person who became a party thereto prior to its completion, it must
be filled up within a reasonable time and strictly in accordance with the
authority given. Reasonable time for this purpose is a question of fact:
Provided that if any such instrument after completion is negotiated to a
holder in due course, it shall be valid and effectual for all purposes in his
hands, and he may enforce it as if it had been filled up within a reasonable
time and strictly in accordance with the authority given. [cf. 1882 c. 61 s.
20 U.K.]