§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
§ Moved, That the Bill be now read 2a.
LORD BROUGHAMhoped that Government would not lose sight of the important petition which he presented a few nights ago, signed by 12,000 persons, playing that in districts where two-thirds of the inhabitants desired it they might have power to prohibit the licensing of houses for the sale of intoxicating liquors within that district. The subject was one of the deepest social and national importance. That eminent philanthropist, Mr. M. D, Hill, declared that in all his attempts to prevent crime, to reform criminals, and to protect property, he found the demon drink starting up to thwart his efforts.
§ Motion agreed to; Bill read 2a accordingly.