HC Deb 24 May 1889 vol 336 cc1001-2

Order for Second Reading, read.

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

THE PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. RITCHIE, Tower Hamlets. St. George's)

I think that before this Bill is read a second time we ought to have some explanation of its provisions.

* MR. BRADLAUGH

The Bill only contains one clause. It proposes to repeal an Act under which certain pensions of a political character have been granted. The matter was discussed in 1888 in the debate on perpetual pensions, and I do not think the House at this hour can wish to be troubled with any remarks upon it.

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL (Sir R. WEBSTER)

I certainly do not think it is desirable that this Bill should be read a second time without the policy of the measure being discussed. The hon. Member has suggested that it is covered by the discussion which took place the other night.

* MR. BRADLAUGH

No; last year.

SIR. WEBSTER

I understood the hon. Gentleman to say just now that it was covered by the debate which took place the other night; but he now says it was covered by a discussion which took place last year. That strengthens the observation I made, that it seems that this Bill ought cer tainly not to pass without full discussion. The Bill proposes to repeal the Act of 1869, and to prevent any further pensions being granted.

* MR. BRADLAUGH

There is a Saving Clause as to existing pensions.

SIR R. WEBSTER

It seems to me we must consider this matter with reference to the circumstances under which pensions are granted. It is quite impossible by a mere vote of the House now, even assuming the hon. Gentleman to be successful in obtaining the Second Reading, to decide the principle involved. I do not even know that the hon. Gentleman explained the matter at great length last year, but I am quite certain of this, that if he did explain it he did not succeed in getting the assent of anything like a majority of the House to the views he expressed.

* MR. BRADLAUGH

The Resolution of the House was unanimous.

SIR R. WEBSTER

It was not unanimous that we should repeal the Political Offices Pension Act (1869). I certainly would suggest that the debate be adjourned.

It being ten minutes to seven of the clock, the debate stood adjourned.

Debate to be resumed upon Friday next, at two of the clock.