§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."
§ LORD ELCHOsaid, this Bill was much in the same position as the last; it was impossible to discuss it to-day, and on reference to the Order-book he found that the first day on which there was any certainty of his being able to bring it on was the 23rd of June. This would, of course, throw the Bill over for the Session, and, as he intended to refer it to a Select Committee, he hoped the House Would allow him to take the second reading now on the understanding that no one was committed thereby to the principle.
§ MR. BLACKBURNsaid, the Scotch Members had not had an opportunity of considering this Bill, as copies were only delivered last Saturday. He suggested its postponement until an early day after the 13th of May.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That this House do now adjourn."
§ SIR MICHAEL SHAW STEWARTsaid, he thought it was not quite respectful to the interests concerned in this Bill that so long a time should have been taken to print it, and so short a time proposed for its consideration.
MR. E. ELLICE(St. Andrews) observed, that although he objected to the principle of the Bill, he saw no valid reason against its being read a second time under the circumstances.
§ MR. BUCHANANsaid, he should advocate the second rending of the Bill.
§ MR. STEUARTobjected strongly to the Bill being persevered with.
§ LORD ELCHOsaid, he would consent to withdraw the Bill for one week.
§ Motion, by leave, withdrawn.
§ Original Question, by leave, withdrawn.
§ Second Reading deferred till Wednesday next.
§ House adjourned at Ton minutes before Six o'clock.