§ Order of the Day for the Third Reading lead.
§ Moved, "That the Bill be now read 3a." —(the Lord Macnaghten.)
§ LORD BRAMWELLsaid, he could not allow this stage of the Bill to pass without a protest. There was a difference of opinion between the Lord Chancellor and the noble and learned Lord who had charge of the Bill on the one hand, and himself on the other, as to the construction of Clause 3. If the opinion of his noble and learned Friends were correct, the clause interfered with freedom of contract, and for that interference not a reason had been given nor argument advanced.
§ Motion agreed to; Bill read 3a accordingly, with the Amendments; a further Amendment made; Bill passed, and sent to the Commons; and to be printed as amended. (No. 235.)