HL Deb 01 April 1833 vol 16 cc1293-4
Lord Wharncliffe,

in presenting a petition for the better observance of the Sabath, said that he could not give his assent to the measure which had been introduced upon this subject in another place, and which it was quite impossible ever to make palatable to the people of this country.

The Bishop of London

presented petitions from the parishes of St. Bride, and of St. John, Hampstead, for the better observance of the Sabbath. In presenting these petitions he said that he knew nothing of the measure which had been introduced elsewhere, except what he had seen in the newspapers. He thought, however, that such tradesmen as wished for the cessation of business on Sunday, not merely from the dictates of conscience, but also from the desire to obtain a little temporary ease, were entitled to the protection of their Lordships. He agreed with the noble Baron, that in legislating upon such subjects it was better not to go too far; and if this measure did go too far, he trusted that their Lordships would not be deterred from doing something on a matter of so much importance.

Lord Ellenborough

recommended the right rev. Prelate, or some other right rev. Prelate, to introduce a rational measure upon this subject; for the measure which had been introduced into the other House would, he was certain, disappoint all the objects which the right rev. Bench had at heart at present. The only means of accomplishing their object was by introducing immediately a more rational measure.