HC Deb 17 February 1857 vol 144 cc762-3
VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

said, it was understood last Session that, instead of a Bill for the renewal of the Act to amend the laws relating to bribery, treating, &c., at elections, the whole subject should be referred to a Committee to inquire into the operation of the Act, and to ascertain what improvements in it might be made. He, therefore, moved the appointment of a Select Committee "to inquire into the operation of the Act 17th & 18th Vict. c. 102, in titled 'An Act to consolidate and amend the Laws relating to bribery, treating, and undue influence at Elections of Members of Parliament.'"

MR. WILLIAM WILLIAMS

was glad the noble Lord had brought forward this question. The Committee which sat a few years ago agreed to a Bill which was admitted on all hands to be the most effective measure for the purpose short of the ballot; nevertheless the measure had proved so very defective, that it was necessary something should be done to prevent the shameful system of bribery and corruption that existed in many places.

MR. H. BERKELEY

also trusted the noble Lord would appoint a Committee that would inquire fairly into the operation of the Act. There was no doubt an impression abroad that the Act was a pompous profession, meant to be inoperative; at least, the great journal of the day, The Times, had so described it. He was, therefore, glad that the noble Lord had submitted the question once more to a Committee; but he hoped its labours would not terminate as fruitlessly as other Committees which had had to investigate the direct operation of our legislative system.

Motion agreed to.

Select Committee appointed.

The House adjourned at half after Seven o'clock.