HC Deb 02 April 1832 vol 11 c1245
Mr. Ruthven

moved the second reading of this Bill.

Colonel Perceval

objected to the second reading of the Bill, on the ground that, if passed, it would afford Catholic priests the power of performing marriages without publishing bans, or going through other useful forms.

Mr. O'Ferrall

said, that, in accordance with the provisions of the Council of Trent, the publication of bans antecedent to marriage was attended to by the Catholic clergy in Ireland.

Mr. Crampton

could not support the Bill in its present shape, as it was calculated to encourage clandestine marriages.

Mr. Maurice O'Connell

said, that any security deemed necessary on this point could be introduced in a subsequent stage of the Bill.

Mr. Spring Rice

agreed with his hon. friend, that the Bill would require amendment, but that could be effected at a subsequent stage. He hoped it would be allowed to pass the second reading without further opposition.

Mr. Shaw

found it necessary to oppose the further progress of the Bill. It ought not to be allowed to proceed through a stage at that late hour in the absence of many hon. Members, who were directly opposed to it. He should take the sense of the House upon it.

The House divided: Ayes 35; Noes 5—Majority 30.

Bill read a second time.