§ Lord Redesdale, after presenting two petitions from imprisoned debtors, observed, that notwithstanding parliament had so recently passed an insolvent act, he understood that the prisons were again almost as full as before. With the view, therefore, of obtaining information upon this subject, he moved for Accounts of the number of persons confined for debt on the 1st of May 1811, the day on which the last act took effect: the number discharged under that act, and the number in confinement on the 5th of February 1812.
The Earl of Moiraexpressed his satisfaction that this subject had been again taken up by the noble and learned lord, viewing the motions now made as an anticipation of the noble lord's intention to renew the bill which he brought forward last session. The pledge he had given upon the subject, was a heavy burden upon his shoulders; and he should most sincerely rejoice to see it again taken up by the noble and learned lord, who, from his professional knowledge, was so much better qualified to do it justice. Something he was convinced must be done, and that very speedily, to ameliorate the condition of a numerous class of persons who were daily suffering oppression through the neglect and inattention of the legislature.—
The Accounts were ordered.