§ THE LORD CHANCELLOR moved the second reading of this Bill, the only object of which he stated to be to reduce from six to three hours the time during which a jury in a civil case must remain in deliberation before the verdict of nine can be taken. The law, and the amendment of the law, was applicable only to the Scotch system of jury trial.
§ LORD CHELMSFORDsaid, he was glad to hear that his noble and learned Friend had no intention of making any attack on the English system. If those who understood the opinions and feelings of the Scotch people thought the Bill would be productive of advantage he had not a word to say against it.
§ Bill read 2a, and committed to a Committee of the whole House on Friday next.