§ Mr. S. Whitbreadpresented a petition from the Middlesex watermen of the river Thames, complaining of the great insecurity of London Bridge, the danger that attended life and property, and the interruption it gave to the navigation of the river.
Sir W. Curtis,admitted that after the presentation of the petition, some inquiry into the state of the bridge was necessary, although he believed it was not in the state of danger described.
Mr. F. Lewissaid, it was highly necessary either that the worthy baronet or some other member should bring the subject before the House, as unless something was promptly introduced a most serious damage would be done to the navigation of the river below the bridge.
Sir W. Curtissaid, he should consult with the trustees and other parties interested, and bring the subject subsequently under the consideration of parliament.
Mr. Alderman Woodsaid, an inquiry had been going on for some time by the trustees; but he thought his hon. colleague had best leave the introduction of the subject of bringing it before parliament to one of the gentlemen who presented petitions against the present state of the bridge. As one of the trustees of the bridge in right of his corporate character, he declared himself quite prepared for inquiry.
Mr. Calvertthought something that essentially affected the fact was kept out of 92 sight. The corporation of London had an interest in the water-works, with which the taking down of London Bridge would interfere. As an hon. friend of his was about to make steam engines consume their own smoke, he hoped he would also extend his motion to have the water there worked by engines on the proposed new construction, rather than by wheels.
Mr. Alderman Woodassured his hon. friend, that the city had no interest in the water-works, except a small rent, which they would not hesitate to give up.
§ Ordered to lie on the table.