§ MR. W. H. JAMESasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Whether it is the case that the Cooks', Haberdashers', Weavers', Fruiterers', and Pewterers' Companies have determined to make application to the Court of Aldermen for the increase of the members of the Livery, owing to an alleged interest taken by certain persons in the trade which they profess to represent; and, if so, whether it is his intention to interpose to prevent this method of disposing of the Parliamentary Franchise?
MR. ASSHETON CROSSI have no more authority over these Companies than any other Member. But I am informed by the Cooks', Haberdashers', and Fruiterers' Companies that they have no such intention. The Weavers' Company say no such application is necessary in their case. And I have not yet received any reply from the Pewterers'.