Lord Broughamsaid, he had to present petitions from certain unhappy persons, who either were or ought to be confined in lunatic asylums in different parts of the island, because, according to what the noble Viscount near him (Melbourne) had laid down the other night, those who were in favour of a repeal of the Corn-laws, must, of course, needs be in a fit condition for confinement in such places. Accordingly the inhabitants of Great Torrington, and other lunatics, had signed the petitions he held in his hand, and prayed for a total repeal of all restrictions. Another petition which he had was from the inhabitants of Great and Little Wolston, and another place in Lancashire, 1177 who only prayed that a strict inquiry might be instituted on this subject, and who therefore were only verging on a condition to call for confinement in a lunatic asylum.
§ Viscount Melbournesaid, that his observation was applied to those who stated, that there should be an immediate repeal, not only of all duties on corn, but also of all other prohibitive and protective duties at once, without further consideration.
§ Petitions laid on the Table.