HC Deb 19 July 1893 vol 15 cc53-4

Order for Second Heading read.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."—(Sir J. T. Hibbert.)

THE MARQUESS OF CARMARTHEN (Lambeth, Brixton)

said, he should like to ask for some explanation of this Bill. He observed from the Notice Paper that a large number of Members on both sides took a strong objection to it; and, personally, he had received letters from two gentlemen in the Now Forest who objected to it. He saw there was some intention of referring the Bill to a Select Committee; and if that were done, personally he should have no objection. He would, however, like to have some explanation of the measure.

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

I have previously explained the object of the Bill, and I am unwilling to do so again. I have been in communication with hon. Gentlemen who are opposed to certain portions of the Bill, and I think their views will be met if the Bill is referred to a Select Committee. I am quite prepared to agree to certain Amendments which, I think, will obviate objection. The Bill really carries out the recommendations of a Select Committee which sat some years ago; and it is very desirable, in the interests of the Crown property, that this Bill should pass into law. I would suggest to those gentlemen who object to the Bill that they should allow the Second Reading to be taken, and then that the Bill should be referred to a Select Committee, which may either take evidence upon any points in dispute on the clauses, or come to an agreement whore the objections are of a very material character.

MR. JEFFREYS (Hants, Basingstoke)

said, he desired to know if the right hon. Gentleman consented to the omission of Clause 5? He spoke on behalf of the verderers of the New Forest, and he wished to know whether any compensation would be granted to the Commissioners of the Forest with regard to the deprivation of their rights? The verderers of the New Forest and others had considerable objection to the 5th clause, and he understood from the right hon. Gentleman the other day that it would be withdrawn.

SIR J. T. HIBBERT

That is quite so with regard to the New Forest, but not with respect to the other forests.

MR. JEFFREYS

said, that being so, the substance of the case came to this—would provision be made for awarding compensation to the Commoners of the New Forest who lost certain rights if this Bill were to pass? [Sir J. T. HIBBERT: No.] The right hon. Gentleman said "No," and he must, therefore, persevere with his objection. It was a very important matter to these Commoners.

It being half-past Five of the clock, the Debate stood adjourned.

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