HC Deb 18 March 1819 vol 39 c1044
Mr. J. Smith rose

, pursuant to notice, to move for leave to bring in a bill to amend the Bankrupt Laws. He observed, that, in calling the attention of the House to this subject, he meant not to enter into the history of those laws. There were, he was convinced, many gentlemen in that House who believed they were not interested in this question, because they imagined that the bankrupt laws did not affect them. It was, however, very difficult to say, who were, or who were not, subject to them. In fact, persons who were never directly connected with trade, might, as appeared from recent decisions, be subjected to the operation of those acts. That a revision of the laws should take place, was most important to the interests of the commercial world, and more so, to the interests of humanity. He should say no more at present, but move "That leave be given to bring in a bill to alter and amend the laws relating to Bankrupts."—Leave given.