HC Deb 19 July 1848 vol 100 cc580-1

SIR DE L. EVANS moved that the report on the Parliamentary Electors Bill be received.

VISCOUNT GALWAY

objected to the measure, and read several returns to show that non-payment of rates excluded very few persons from the exercise of the franchise. In Cambridge, out of a constituency of 2,872, only one was excluded; in Exeter, none, though the constituency amounted to 3,550. In Liverpool, with a constituency of 39,266, only 89 were excluded; Manchester, 17,878 voters, 77 excluded; Tower Hamlets, 41,921, 978 excluded; Westminster, 23,224, 1,999 excluded; Norwich, 3,478, 53 excluded; Newcastle, 5,414, 7 excluded. He contended that there was no necessity for any such measure, and concluded by moving that the report be received that day six months.

The House divided on the question that the word "now" stand part of the question:—Ayes 66; Noes 61: Majority 5.

Bill reported. To be read a third time.

House adjourned at a quarter past Four o'clock.