§ Mr. Lushingtonmoved for leave to bring in a Bill for amending the 18th of George 2, by extending the provisions of the said Act respecting the expence of Hosting and Poll Clerks at elections, as far as regards the city of Westminster.
Sir P. Burdettstated the situation of the high bailiff of Westminster to be very different from that of the sheriff of a county. If it could not be proved that the emoluments of his office were too small, he thought that there was no reason for bringing in the Bill; and if that could be proved, he had no doubt but the liberality of the city of Westminster (whose rights he conceived would be in some degree affected by the measure), would be ready to increase his income.
Mr. Wynnthought the city of Westminster ought not to be distinguished from other populous places, unless some reason was given why such distinction was made.
The Chancellor of the Exchequerobserved, that some large places had particular regulations, and thought there could be no objection to the Bill being brought in.
Mr. Lockhartobjected to the measure, as likely to throw additional expence on the candidates, whether voluntary or involuntary, who might hereafter be put in nomination. He knew not how far the principle might be extended, and thought it his duty to oppose it in the first in-stance.
§ Mr. Wilsonspoke in favour of the Bill.—Leave was given to bring in the Bill.