§ MR. THOMAS CHAMBERSsaid, he wished to ask the President of the Poor Law Board, Whether it is his intention, and, if so, when, to introduce a Bill into Parliament, founded on the recommendations of the Select Committee on Poor Relief, in reference to the religious rights of inmates of workhouses; and further, if such be his intention, to ask that he will give sufficient notice of the same for Boards of Guardians, Unions, and Parishes to have the opportunity of expressing their opinions upon such an important measure?
§ MR. C. P. VILLIERSsaid, in reply, that towards the end of last Session he had introduced a Bill for the amendment of the Poor Law in several respects, and among other provisions in the Bill were clauses affecting the religious rights of the inmates of workhouses. That Bill was withdrawn owing to the lateness of the Session, but it was his intention to reintroduce it containing clauses having the effect of those in the former Bill. Due notice of its introduction would be 1644 given, and ample opportunity afforded for the discussion of its clauses.