HC Deb 14 July 1856 vol 143 cc810-1

Order for Third Reading read.

Motion made and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read the third time."

MR. BLACKBURN

trusted that the Bill would not be pressed, for the feeling of the Scotch Members was against it. They objected to the appointment of two permanent inspectors. He moved that the Bill be read a third time that day three months.

Amendment proposed, to leave out the word "now," and at the end of the Question to add the words "upon this day three months."

THE LORD ADVOCATE

was not aware of this adverse feeling among the Scotch Members, and should not withdraw the Bill, deeming it one of considerable importance. As the Bill at present stood, it was perfectly satisfactory to Sir John M'Neill, who had administered the Poor Law in Scotland in a most masterly and efficient manner. The Highlands were now happily in a more prosperous state than they were some time back; but, as bad times might recur, no man who had witnessed what he had would take on himself the responsibility of rejecting a measure which, at a cheap cost to the public, would be productive of great benefit in the working of the Poor Law.

MR. COWAN

said, he would support the Bill, if he understood that Sir John M'Neill had not at present the power which the Bill proposed to give him.

SIR GEORGE GREY

said, Sir John M'Neill had not the power of appointing permanent inspectors.

MR. DUNCAN

objected to the appointment of a roving commission to investigate into the affairs of every local board, with their consent or against it.

MR. ALEXANDER HASTIE

maintained that the powers at present possessed by the Board of Supervision rendered the Bill unnecessary.

MR. BOUVERIE

remarked that, the powers of the Board of Supervision referred to special inquiries only, whereas the Bill provided for the appointment of permanent inspectors. That system had been found of great importance in England.

MR. CRAUFURD

observed, that evils existed in the Highlands which could be remedied only by the machinery provided in the Bill.

Question put, "That the word 'now' stand part of the question."

The House divided:—Ayes 95; Noes 25: Majority 70.

Main Question put, and agreed to.

Bill read 3° clause added.

Bill passed.