The Marquis of Salisburyrequested the noble and learned Lord on the Woolsack would have the kindness to inform him, what steps had been taken by his Majesty's Government towards the formation of the Commission which the noble and learned Lord had given notice of for the investigation of the state of the Poor-laws? It was nearly two years since his Majesty's Ministers had promised to take up the subject, and it was full time that something effectual should be done.
The Lord Chancellorsaid, that the noble Marquis was in error in imagining that so long a time as two years had elapsed since the attention of his colleagues had been called to this question. It was in the beginning of last Session, including the summer Session, and certainly not more than a year ago, that the subject had been introduced. He assured the noble Marquis that no unnecessary delay had taken place, and he hoped, that in two or three days the plan would be matured. The central body of Commissioners was appointed, but the country Commissioners were not yet named.
The Duke of Buckinghaminquired if the central Commissioners were to have the nomination of the country Commissioners.
The Lord Chancellorsaid, that the town body would recommend the country members of the Commission—of course they would not have the appointment without the sanction of Government to each particular name.
The Marquis of Salisburybegged to ask the noble and learned Lord further, whether there would be any objection to 724 lay before Parliament a copy of the instructions which he presumed it was intended to issue to the Commissioners.
The Lord Chancellorsaid, he really, at the present moment, could not answer the question. He believed it was rather unusual to ask for the production of papers which at the time had no existence.