HL Deb 29 August 1831 vol 6 cc749-50

Earl Grey moved the second reading of the Duchess of Kent's Annuity Bill. He was not aware that it was incumbent on him to say any thing on the subject of this Bill, except merely to state its provisions. It was an additional grant of an annuity of 10,000l. to the Duchess of Kent, who, considering her situation, had, he must say, been but scantily provided for. Of this sum, 4,OOOl. a-year was for the Duchess herself, and 6,0001. was to be allowed her for the maintenance and education of the Princess Victoria; and, as the annuity was made to depend on the lives of the parties, it was provided, that in case of the death of the Duchess while the Princess was alive, 4,000l. of the annuity was to cease; and, in case the Princess should die, leaving the Duchess alive, then 6,000l. of the annuity was to cease. Comparing this with what had been done on former occasions, it could not be considered as any thing approaching to an extravagant allowance.—Read a second time.