§ Mr. Edward Lytton Bulwer moved the third reading of the Dramatic Performances' Bill.
§ Mr. Rotchopposed the Motion, as he considered the subject one that was unworthy the attention of the Legislature, and which was more likely to entail evil than to do good. He also opposed it, because he did not wish to see the power that ought to belong to the Royal Prerogative transferred to the Lord Chamberlain. The Bill, if it passed, would do great injury to all parties that might be subjected to the will of the Lord Chamberlain. A theatre only brought together a set of unfortunate outcasts, who had no other means of existence, and yet it was for such a class that they were called upon to legislate. It was his duty to take the sense of the House on the question. He would therefore move as an Amendment that the Bill be read that day six months.
§ The House divided on the Motion: Ayes 7; Noes 38—Majority 31.
§ The Bill read a third time, and passed.