Parliamentary Reform
The measure of Parliamentary Reform, as approved by part of the Administration, and now under consideration, is said to be to the following extent:-"Every place returning two members that has not one thousand voters, will have one member transferred to some other more populous place, at present unrepresented. Leaseholders and copyholders to have the right of voting, as well as freeholders. Out-voters to lose their franchise, unless they attend the elections at their own expense. Time of the election to be reduced. Severe penalties on Returning-officers for partiality, &c. All freemen in close corporations to have the right of taking up their freedom."
It is calculated that in the present House of Commons so many members are pledged to support the question of Parliamentary Reform that it will be carried by a majority of 65. In the House of Lords, the Bishops and Boroughmongers are so numerous, and interested in keeping matters as they are, that a strong opposition is organising, and the result is doubtful.
The borough of Petersfield, in Hampshire, the property of Hylton Jolliffe, Esq., was considered the most valuable of the kind, and for half a century commanded the highest price for seats in the market—it not being necessary for the candidates to be present or even known. Two years ago, one hundred and twenty thousand pounds was offered for it and declined; now it is considered worth about thirty-three thousand. Such is the depreciation of borough property!