HC Deb 15 February 1858 vol 148 cc1457-8
MR. COWPER

suggested that the House should agree to the second reading of the Bill, on the understanding that the discussion should be taken upon going into Committee.

MR. PALK

said, he could not agree to the suggestion, as his objections were to the principle of the Bill.

MR. JOHN LOCKE

said, that this Bill had become a regular Parliamentary nuisance. He had waited several nights for it to come on, and he thought some determination ought to be come to as to whether the Bill was to be proceeded with or not. At present the right hon. Gentleman had not given the House any explanation at all of the provisions of the Bill.

VISCOUNT PALMERSTON

said, he hoped that when the Bill came to be discussed, it would be discussed without the prejudice which was endeavoured to be raised against it. It was a measure deeply involving the interests of the people, as it was addressed to the prevention of diseases which involved a greater loss of life than any war in which the country had been engaged.

SIR GEORGE PECHELL

hoped that the Bill which had been brought forward several times, would have a day fixed for its discussion. It had thrown over the Conspiracy Bill that night, and he hoped it would last long enough to throw it over altogether.

MR. HENLEY

said, that the Bill contained upwards of 180 clauses, incorporated five or six Acts of Parliament nearly as long as itself, and dealt with private Acts without end. It was desirable, therefore, that the House should have a proper opportunity of fully discussing it, and it was the noble Lord's duty, as leader of the House, to fix a proper time for the discussion.

Second Reading deferred till Friday.

House adjourned at a quarter before One o'clock.