§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ MR. WHALLEYsaid, he rose to move the second reading of the Bill, which was for the purpose of allowing persons charged with some offences, such as misdemeanours, to give evidence to rebut the charge. Another point was, that corroborative evidence of the statements of policemen should 1204 be required. He complained of the conduct of the police and the rashness with which they apprehended people.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."
MR. H. A. BRUCEsaid, that the Bill confused several matters in such a way as to render it impracticable even if carried. No doubt the hon. Gentleman had shown that there were cases of abuse of authority; but they must recollect that there were 7,000 policemen, 5,000 of whom were walking about every night, and it was preposterous to say that their evidence ought not to be taken unless corroborated. Even if the matter was a fit one for discussion, it could not be properly discussed at that late period of the Session. He should move that the Bill be read a second time that day month.
§ Amendment proposed, to leave out the word "now," and at the end of the Question to add the words "upon this day month."—(Mr. Bruce.)
§ Question proposed, "That the word 'now' stand part of the Question."
§ MR. WHALLEYcomplained that the Under Secretary attempted to stifle inquiry into the conduct of the police, of which there was very great and very just complaint.
§ MR. AYRTONexpressed a hope that the Bill would not be pressed at that late period of the Session.
§ Amendment and Motion, by leave, withdrawn.
§ Bill withdrawn.