HC Deb 14 March 1882 vol 267 cc881-2
MR. LEWIS

asked Mr. Attorney General, Whether the Government proposes to move for the issue of a new Writ for the City of Oxford, in the place of Mr. Justice Chitty; and, whether he will state the course the Government propose to pursue as regards the still vacant seats of Members unseated for bribery?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (Sir HENRY JAMES)

It is not the intention of the Government to move for the issue of a New Writ for the City of Oxford in consequence of the elevation of Mr. Justice Chitty. In answer to the second portion of the Question, I may state that it is the intention of the Government to submit a Bill for the consideration of the House, and the House will then have an opportunity of dealing with the different constituencies according to the amount of corrupt practices which had been reported to have existed.

MR. LEWIS

Can the Attorney General state when the Bill will be brought in?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (Sir HENRY JAMES)

At the first practicable opportunity, Sir.

MR. LEWIS

In consequence of the answer I have received, I beg to give Notice that on this day week I shall move that a New Writ be issued for the City of Oxford?

MR. THOMAS COLLINS

I beg to give Notice that I shall oppose the Motion.

MR. ONSLOW

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman say whether he intends to proceed with that Bill or the Corrupt Practices Bill first?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (Sir HENRY JAMES)

said, that that was a matter relating to the general conduct of Business; and the Question ought, therefore, to be addressed to the Prime Minister.