HC Deb 13 April 1869 vol 195 cc752-3

MR. GOLDNEY moved for leave to bring in a Bill to amend the Law relating to the office and appointment of County Coroners and for other purposes. The hon. Gentleman explained that he desired to have the appointment of these officials placed in the hands of either the Lord Chancellor or the Home Secretary, instead of continuing the present unsatisfactory state of things.

MR. CUBITT

suggested that this might well form the subject of examination before a Select Committee.

MR. BRUCE

said, he had no objection to the introduction of the Bill, because he admitted the subject deserved consideration, and required legislation. It could not be denied that the present mode of election was cumbrous, expensive, and altogether unsuited to the character of the office. He would not say that it did not secure proper persons for the office, but it did so at a cost often most ruinous to themselves. With respect to the details of the Bill, he could not pledge himself, though he felt much inclined to concur with the hon. Member who had said that the appointment should be anywhere else than with the Crown.

Motion agreed to. Bill to amend the Law relating to the office and appointment of County Coroners; and for other purposes relating thereto, ordered to be brought in by Mr. GOLDNEY, Mr. THOMAS CHAMBERS, and Mr. PEASE.

Bill presented, and read the first time. [Bill 75.]