§ THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE,in moving the second reading of this Bill, said, it had only yesterday come up from the other House. It contained about 80 clauses, and it would, therefore, be necessary that their Lordships should adopt its provisions, confiding very much in the attention which had been already bestowed upon them by those interested in this subject, or that a very useful measure should be postponed until the next Session of Parliament. The measure was one which had been suggested and urged upon the Government by the country gentlemen.
§ THE EARL OF DERBYsaid, it was to be regretted that a Bill of so much importance had been brought before their Lordships at so late a period of the Session. He admitted, however, that its objects were in themselves extremely desirable, and if no serious objection should be made 1786 to the clauses there was no reason why it should not become law this Session.
THE MARQUESS OF BATHdid not wish to delay the passing of the Bill, but every clause would require careful consideration in Committee.
§ Bill read 2a, and committed to a Committee of the Whole House on Thursday next.
§ House adjourned at half-past Seven
§ o'clock, to Thursday next,
§ Twelve o'clock.