HC Deb 24 May 1866 vol 183 cc1288-9

Order for Second Reading read.

MR. GOLDSMID

, in moving the second reading of this Bill, said, that one object of it was to confer upon Returning Officers the power of giving a casting vote in case of each candidate polling an equal number of votes.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."—(Mr. Goldsmid.)

MR. J. LOWTHER

said, he hoped that considering the lateness of the hour and the importance of the measure, the hon. Gentleman would postpone the second reading.

MR. AYRTON

said, he thought the better course would be to read the Bill a second time, on the understanding that it should not be further proceeded with until certain questions which would be raised before an Election Committee in respect to returning officers had been decided.

Motion agreed to.

Bill read a second time, and committed for Wednesday 20th June.