HC Deb 24 July 1858 vol 151 cc2076-7

Order for Third Reading read.

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

MR. NICOLL

said, that he regretted the introduction of the 4th clause into the Bill, as he believed that its effect would be to render the measure perfectly useless, except for the lawyers, for whom it would produce a plentiful crop of litigation. If this clause were allowed to stand part of the Bill, no security could be obtained for crossed cheques, and he hoped the Government would consent to withdraw the Bill; but rather than allow it to pass with this clause, he would move that the Bill be read a third time that day three months.

MR. CONINGHAM

seconded the Amendment.

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

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

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

said, that he did not hesitate to say he very much disapproved of the clause, but had been compelled against his own judgment to insert it in consequence of the late period of the Session. He hoped, however, that the hon. Gentleman would withdraw his Amendment and allow the Bill to pass, as it was really one which, in his opinion, would be extremely useful to the commercial and mercantile interests of the country.

MR. JOHN LOCKE

said, he would suggest that the Amendment should be withdrawn, on the understanding that steps should be taken for having the clause expunged in its progress through the other House.

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

said, he would not lose sight of the suggestion of the hon. and learned Member, and would do all in his power to obtain the withdrawal of the clause.

MR. HANKEY

said, that the clause was one of great value, and he hoped that the House would not rashly come to the opinion that any pledge would be given by the Attorney General to use his exertions to prevent the clause remaining part of the Bill.

MR. STUART WORTLEY

said, he wished to express his opinion that the clause should be expunged.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Main Question put, and agreed to.

Bill read 3o, and passed.

House adjourned at a Quarter after Three o'clock.