Mr. Luhingtonthought it desirable before the House proceeded further in the Westminster Hustings Bill, to ascertain the nature and extent of the responsibility attached to the office of High Bailiff of Westminster. He accordingly moved, that a Select Committee be appointed to inquire into the Office of High Bailiff of Westminster, and report upon the duties and burdens incident thereto.
Sir F. Burdettsupposed, that this proposed enquiry was intended to precede the enactment of a Bill upon the subject: but as he did not think that any enquiry could ultimately justify such a proceeding, he should vote against the appointment of the Committee. Any Bill such as had been proposed could only have the effect of raising the price of the office of High-bailiff of Westminster, and putting so much additional money into the pocket of the Dean and Chapter of Westminster, without in any degree relieving the officer. The bailiff was indeed indemnified at present, as might be proved by the success of his action against him (Sir Francis) for the expence of the election, though he had been nominated without 789 his desire, and returned without his consent. Against the principle of that decision, he must beg leave to protest. The learned judge (lord Ellenborough) thought, that when a member of parliament had the advantage of his seat it was but fair that he should bear the expence of his election. Now, though undoubtedly the learned judge might have had good reason for his decision, though he might personally have found his seat profitable and advantageous, still he (sir Francis) could not see any advantage to be derived from a laborious discharge of one's duty in that House.
Mr. Wynnexpressed his satisfaction at the motion, which he thought calculated to shew how the case stood. He thought that elections ought to be free of expence; but if expence must be incurred, it might, be suggested, be provided for by a rate on the city of Westminster.
After a few words from Mr. P. Moore, Mr. Lockhart, and Mr. Lushington, the motion was agreed to, and the Committee appointed. The second reading of the Westminster Hustings Bill was postponed to this day fortnight.