§ Sir W. Congreve moved the third reading of this bill.
§ Mr. S. Whitbreadsaid, he looked with great jealousy at the combination of gentlemen to destroy the trade of individuals. The number of pawnbrokers in the metropolis did not exceed 300, and the only difference was, that the pawnbroker lent 2s. 6d. for the interest of one half-penny per month, while the company now to be established lent 2s. 7d. for the same interest: so that the advantage in this respect to the public would be very small, while they would be deprived of the useful summary remedy they at present enjoyed against pawnbrokers. He therefore moved, that the bill be read a third time on this day three months.
Mr. Hobhousesupported the amendment for the sake of all tradesmen; for, if this bill were carried, there was no reason why joint-stock companies of butchers or bakers should not be established. The real object of the promoters of the bill was private profit, and by that profit the public would be losers.
§ Sir W. Congrevesaid, that the pawn-brokers themselves were persons privileged by act of parliament; and, with regard to profit, the company would be satisfied with less than what was made by the pawnbrokers.
§ Mr. Monckcontended, that the bill, though christian in profession, was Jewish in principle, as the object of the speculators was, to monopolize the profits which the jews at present enjoyed.
After a short conversation, the House divided: for the third reading 40—Against it 32. On the question "that the Bill do pass," a second division occurred. The numbers were—For the passing 44–Against it 25. The bill was passed accordingly.