HL Deb 11 June 1840 vol 54 cc990-1
The Earl of Aberdeen

postponed until Tuesday next the second reading of the bill relating to the admission of ministers to benefices in. Scotland.

The Marquess of Breadalbane

said, that as this was a subject of great importance, he wished to know from the noble Earl, whether he really meant to press the bill in question. By a letter which he had received that morning from Edinburgh, he was informed, that there was a sort of understanding between an hon. Friend of the noble Earl and an eminent clergyman of the Church of Scotland, to the effect, that the bill in question should not be pressed, if a majority of the Assembly of the Church of Scotland decided against it. Now, a majority of the Assembly had, by vote, come to the resolution that the bill in question was inconsistent with the principles of the Presbyterian Church, and, therefore, he felt bound to ask the noble Earl whether he really meant to press the bill?

The Earl of Aberdeen

said, he would Be quite ready to debate the bill with the noble Marquess on Tuesday. He had already given notice of the second reading for that day, and he was no party to any understanding with any one on the subject.

Motion postponed.

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