THE EARL OF CAMPERDOWNMy Lords, I desire to call attention to the long delay which has taken place in presenting the Bill relating to the offi[...]e of the High Sheriff, and to ask when the Bill will be introduced. I was told shortly before Easter, upon putting a question in your Lordships' House on the subject, that the Bill relating to the office of High Sheriff would be introduced after the House reassembled, but so far it has not made its appearance. I have received many applications from gentlemen who names are on the list of sheriffs, inquiring whether it is proposed to change certain of the duties and responsibilities of the office, and I therefore beg to ask Her Majesty's Government, with a view to removing uncertainty, when it is proposed to introduce the Bill?
§ THE LORD CHANCELLORI am extremely sorry I am not able to give a definite answer to the noble Lord. I must, however, remind him that there is much difference of opinion on the subject. I cannot go into the matter at this moment and explain to the noble Lord what those difficulties are. Though some of them have been got over there are some still outstanding. I am afraid I cannot at this moment give any more definite answer than that. I may say I differ myself on some points from the Report of the Committee which inquired into this matter; but I hope we may be able to legislate on the subject without undue delay.
§ LORD COLERIDGEA question has been raised with regard to trumpeters, 1686 and I believe the matter is under consideration.
§ THE LORD CHANCELLORI may re-assure the noble and learned Lord with regard to that matter. Whenever the question has been raised the matter has been left entirely as it is at present, and it is not proposed to alter the present procedure as to trumpeters.