§ On the question that the Chelsea Out Pensioners Bill be read a third time,
§ Mr. Brightreferred to Mr. Spooner's statement at Birmingham, that—
He had it from undoubted authority, that the labourers in the surrounding district were in a most deplorable condition. He positively knew it was a fact, that some masters in the iron trade, as much with a view of assisting the men as from a desire or hope of gain, had set on some hands to work, but that the men, on resuming their labour, were positively compelled, from complete weakness, to leave the furnaces and give up that employment for which their souls had been longing.He wished to know whether the Government, after being two years in office, and the people being in the greatest state of suffering, intended to bring forward any measure for their relief?
§ Mr. T. Duncombewould not oppose the bill further, after being borne down by such a great number of officials, he would not say subalterns of the Government, as that was offensive. He deeply regretted that the Ministers had resolved only to pursue a course of coercion. He had no feeling of anger or ill will whatever to the Gentlemen who supported this bill, and taking leave of it in good humour, he had only to express a hope that the Government would carry it into effect with moderation.
§ Sir H. Hardingewould imitate the example of the hon. Member, and say nothing to disturb the good feeling which now prevailed. He could assure the House that the bill should be carried into 928 effect with moderation and the greatest regard to the feelings of the pensioners.
§ Mr. Wawnsaid, the bill would put the country to an expense of 100,000l., which was now most undesirable.
§ Bill read a third time and passed.