HC Deb 07 May 1867 vol 187 cc185-6

Bill, as amended, considered.

SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE

moved that the Bill be referred to a Select Committee.

Motion made, and Question proposed, That the Bill be re-committed to a Select Committee of Five Members to be appointed by the Committee of Selection."—(Sir Stafford Northcote.)

MR. AYRTON

suggested that the Bill be referred to a Committee of seven Members, five to be appointed by the Committee of Selection. This would allow the metropolis to be represented on the Committee.

Amendment proposed, after the words "Committee of," to insert the words "Seven Members."—(Mr. Ayrton.)

Question proposed, "That those words be there inserted."

MR. KINNAIRD

opposed the proposal, as being contrary to the understanding agreed to the other night.

SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE

said, the understanding the other night was that the Bill should be referred to a Select Committee to be nominated by the Committee of Selection. If the Order were now made that the Bill be referred to a Select Committee, the hon. Member might on Notice move hereafter that two Members be added to the Committee. Until he ascertained what the opinions of the gas companies were on this subject he could not assent to the suggestion of the hon. Member, but would confine himself to his original proposition that five should be the number of the Select Committee.

MR. MONK

moved that the debate be adjourned.

Motion made, and Question put, "That the Debate be now adjourned."—(Mr. Monk.)

The House divided:—Ayes 53; Noes 5: Majority 48.

Debate adjourned till To-morrow.