The LORD CHANCELLORmoved the first reading of a Bill to facilitate the Sale of Incumbered Estates in Ireland. He felt that this was a measure of very great importance, and it had been very anxiously looked for. In preparing, it every attention had been paid to the details; and the delay which had taken place on its introduction was not more than was required for the adjustment of the machinery necessary for the operation of the Bill, and at the same time absolutely necessary to protect parties as well as those who were interested in the remainder of those estates.
LORD STANLEYwished to know when the noble and learned Lord intended to take the second reading, and whether, as a number of Irish Peers had left town, he was of opinion that it should be taken before Easter?
The LORD CHANCELLORthought it desirable that the Bill should be circulated as soon as possible. It ought not, however, to be read a second time till after Easter.
§ Bill read 1a.
§ House adjourned.