HC Deb 14 September 1831 vol 7 cc27-8

Lord Althorp moved the Order of the Day for the further consideration of the report of the Reform Bill.

Mr. Burge

begged leave to inquire what day the noble Lord meant to fix on for the further consideration of the report on the Sugar Refining Bill. The large minority, or rather the very trifling majority, the other evening on that Bill, evinced the anxiety and necessity of a thorough discussion of its principle, and probable operation, and it was plain such a discussion could not be ensured, if the Order of the Day were moved after the House had concluded its ordinary labours, that is, at two o'clock in the morning. Hon. Members would then naturally betake themselves to repose, and the subject could not be fairly examined unless the noble Lord consented to fix a day apart for the discussion. He had an amendment to propose when the question should come before the House, to the effect that a Select Committee should inquire into the effect on the West- Indian interests of the proposed plan of home refining.

Lord Althorp

could not fix a day for the discussion, but would give due notice, so as to afford hon. Members the opportunity they desired of expressing their sentiments on the bill.