§ LORD PORTMANsaid, he had a petition to which he wished to call the attention of his noble Friend the Lord Privy Seal, for if the allegations contained in it were true, it was a matter of considerable importance. The petitioner called the attention of the House to the Government works which were being carried on at the isle of Portland for the formation of a breakwater and a harbour of refuge. These public works would involve a large expenditure of the public money, so that the utmost care should be taken that they were carried out in a proper manner. The petitioner complained that the extent of the breakwater was not sufficient for the protection of shipping from the easterly winds, and also that the proposed defences of the harbour were not sufficient for the protection of ships in it against the attacks of an enemy.
The EARL of MINTOwould not give any opinion as to the statements contained in the petition, but he would take care that it should be submitted to the consideration of the proper authorities.
§ House adjourned till To-morrow.