The struck out number on the forend is a 74L6--9 number.

Roger, what do you think about the face of that front pad? Looks larger than H&H, more like those seen on converted trials rifles?

Colin, the rifle you saw with the holes plugged, was it Britishicon or Long Branch? I have a NSN LB with the pad holes drilled 1/4" back from the usual position and a 4BA tap broken off in one hole. Whether it was just someone messing around post-war or a learning piece from wartime there is no way to tell IMO.