The Attorney-Generalsaid he would take that opportunity of vindicating himself from the charge made against him last night in his absence, and he was surprised that any Gentleman could make such a charge. It was stated last night that he had set a bad example, in shrinking from the execution of his duty. But the Fact was, that he last Session claimed an exemption from attendance in Parliament, on the ground that he had to conduct an important Government prosecution in a remote county. The right hon. Member for Tamworth concurred with him that he was perfectly justified in asking for leave of absence under those circumstances. As soon as the trial was over he returned to town, and attended constantly in the House for the remainder of the Session.
§ Sir R. Peelentirely concurred with what fell from the right hon. and learned Gentleman—and hoped, for the satisfaction of his feelings, his (the Attorney-General's) name would be placed upon the first committee.