HC Deb 15 June 1876 vol 229 cc1962-3

Order for Committee read.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That Mr. Speaker do now leave the Chair."—(Mr. Sykes.)

MR. GOURLEY

objected to the consideration of so important a measure at so late an hour.

MR. JAMES

opposed the Motion on the ground that the Bill would affect every port and harbour in the United Kingdom, and that no explanation had been given of the objects of the measure.

Question put.

The House divided:—Ayes 98; Noes 23: Majority 75.

Main Question, "That Mr. Speaker do now leave the Chair," put, and agreed to.

Bill considered in Committee.

(In the Committee.)

MR. DODDS

said, that they had had no proper explanation of the Bill, and therefore he moved that the Chairman should report Progress.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Chairman do report Progress, and ask leave to sit again."—(Mr. Dodds.)

MR. SYKES

explained that the Bill enabled the local authorities to reduce the local light duties, but only when they had the means of doing so, and almost every port in the Kingdom was in favour of that proposition. He was determined to go on with the Bill.

LOUR ESLINGTON

supported the Bill, believing that it was for the public benefit.

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

explained the objects of the Bill, and said they appeared to him reasonable.

Question put.

The Committee divided:—Ayes 10; Noes 96: Majority 86.

Bill reported, without Amendment; to be read the third time To-morrow.