HC Deb 23 July 1863 vol 172 cc1284-5
MR. DARBY GRIFFITH

said, he would beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade, Whether, as Chairman of the Committee on Private Bill Legislation, as well as in his official capacity, he intends to take any' and what steps in order to give effect to the recommendations of the Committee, or to effect any other alteration in existing practice as to Solicitors' charges for Copies of Evidence, and also as to the ad valorem duties on Private Bills in the House of Commons?

MR. MILNER GIBSON

replied, that the Committee passed several Resolutions, and the evidence taken before them had been printed, and would be laid before the House in a few days. The Government had thought it better not to propose any action upon these Resolutions this Session. Considering the lateness of the Session, and the fact that Members were daily leaving town, if action were now taken, it would be in the presence of only a small number of Members, which was very undesirable in making important changes affecting the practice of the House.

MR. DARBY GRIFFITH

Will they do so next Session?

MR. MILNER GIBSON

I think it is highly probable.

MR. WHALLEY

said, he wished to know if the House was to understand that a Bill will be introduced next Session on the subject?

MR. MILNER GIBSON

said, it was intended to introduce a Bill at the commencement of next Session to enable promoters of undertakings, when all parties were assenting, to carry out certain works, and accomplish certain objects by complying with the provisions of a general measure, such compliance to be certified by a Department of the Government.