The BISHOP of NORWICH, in moving the Third Reading of this Bill said, that he was sure every one of their Lordships must see the propriety of a measure calculated to put a stop to the evils alluded to in this Bill. At the same time it was not one for discussion, as it might excite unpleasant feelings.
LORD BROUGHAMprotested against a Bill which would not admit of discussion. He warned the House against such a course of legislation as this, into which they might rashly enter, but from which they would find it difficult to withdraw. Who could tell him what was meant by seduction under this Bill, for there was no clear definition of it contained in it. Under it the vilest prostitute might proceed for penalties, and get a man imprisoned for a long period. All were agreed that, if possible, these detestable vices should be put a stop to; but they never could be effected under a Bill like the present. A morbid feeling existed on this subject, which prevented people coming forward and opposing an ineffective measure like this.
§ LORD DENMANagreed in most of the 216 observations of his noble Friend. They all agreed that it was most desirable to pass a measure which would put down a traffic in prostitution; but he feared, however, such a measure as this would lead to greater evils, in tending rather to encourage than suppress the vices aimed at by it. He hoped that the right reverend Prelate would withdraw the Bill, and he would lend every assistance with his noble and learned Friend to frame a more effective measure.
LORD CAMPBELLdid not shrink from sharing any odium which might fall upon his two noble and learned Friends for the expression of their opinions on this subject. He fully concurred in thinking that this measure would do more harm than good. Such an attempt at legislation was not merely ridiculous, for it might be productive of great mischief.
The BISHOP of NORWICHobserved, that all had admitted the propriety of adopting some measure on this subject; but, after the expression of opinion of the three noble and learned Lords, he would not then press this Bill, but he trusted some more effective measure would be brought forward next Session to meet this most desirable object.
§ The Order for the Third Reading was then discharged.