§ The order of the day for the third reading of this bill being read,
§ Lord Sidmouth rose, and repeated his objections to the present measure, He described the provisions of the clause, which some time since he had given notice of his intention to propose, and also given an outline, for the information of their lordships. The introduction of this clause he deemed necessary to modify the bill, and to counteract, in some degree, those injurious effects which he feared would proceed from the measure. The gist of the noble viscount's clause was to prohibit the universities from purchasing any new advowsons until they had augmented the smaller livings at present in their disposal, to the value of 250l. per annum each; and which his lordship proposed in the way of rider.
§ The Bishop of Oxford strongly opposed the noble viscount's clause, it would go to counteract the present measure; and he remarked upon the disadvantage of discussing so important a proposition upon the very last stage of a bill, which had been two months before the house. If his lordship was determined to persevere, he would recommend him to do it, by a separate bill.
§ The Earl of Suffolk took the opportunity to recommend forcibly the distressed situation of the poorer clergy, to the attention of their lordships.
§ The Bishop of St. Asaph offered some forcible objections to the clause, which, he argued, would defeat the bill, as well as prove inefficient as to its own objects.
§ The Earl of Westmoreland supported some of the objections of the rev. prelate.
§ The Lord Chancellor delivered his sentiments, and concluded by moving a slight amendment with respect to the local operation of the clause, which was agreed to by the house.—Some further conversation on the subject took place, after which their 6 lordships divided upon the amended clause; when there appeared, for its introduction, 9, against it 9. This equality of numbers, according to the rules of the house, proved fatal to the clause, which was, therefore, rejected.—Adjourned.