§ MR. G. BANKESrose to put two questions to the Secretary for the Home Department. The first related to the circular issued from the Home Office last autumn, adressed to magistrates in quarter-sessions, respecting the relinquishment of punishment by transportation: in future it was stated to be the intention of Government to provide punishment at home. His first question was, whether the plan was matured, and if so, when it would be laid before the House?
§ SIR G. GREYsaid, the subject of suspending transportation as a punishment had undergone much deliberation; and he hoped in a few days to lay before the House papers showing what were the intentions of Ministers: they would convey to Members a knowledge of the principle but not of the details. The intention was to make all spare accommodation in prisons available; and it would be necessary to bring in a Bill on an early day.