HL Deb 21 March 1871 vol 205 cc331-2

Amendments reported (according to Order).

Clause 7 (Commissioners may examine on oath. Limitation of Pension).

LORD CAIRNS moved to omit the word "gross" from the limitation "provided that in no case shall such pension exceed one third part of the gross annual value of the benefice resigned." The words, as they stood, might cast an unfair burden on the succeeding incumbent.

THE BISHOP OF WINCHESTER

hoped their Lordships would maintain the clause as it stood. The provision did not make it compulsory upon the Commissioners to give a third of the gross value of the living, but left to their discretion what should be given according to circumstances. The proviso simply limited their discretion not to exceed this proportion. This discretion would be very useful and economical, since one living differed widely from another, and where uncertainty existed there was sure to be expense.

LORD CAIRNS

said, he had been under the impression that when a full discussion took place the other evening upon this point, there was almost unanimity in favour of the omission of the word. He thought the argument of the right rev. Prelate rather indicated an increase of uncertainty than otherwise.

THE BISHOP OF LONDON

also opposed the Amendment, pointing to the difficulty of arriving at the net value.

Then, on the Motion of the Bishop of WINCHESTER, new Clause added— (Resignation by Lunatics.) The right of resignation and the duty of doing any act leading to it, connected with, or consequent on such resignation by this Act given to an incumbent, may if the incumbent be a lunatic found such by inquisition be exercised in his name and on his behalf by the Committee of his estate.

Clause 16 struck out.

Bill to be read 3a on Thursday next; and to be printed, as amended. (No. 52.)