20 MAY 1876, Page 1

On the whole, Lord Sandon's statement was favourably received, though

Mr. Mundella warmly complained of the weakness of the attempt at indirectcompulsion, and some of the country party ob- jected to the repeal of the Agricultural Children's Act. The House in general felt it too early to criticise a Bill which was not yet in their hands. It is to be read a second time on the 12th of June. The Bill appears to us a good measure, with the main-spring wanting. If it prove to be so, the House of Commons should restore the mainspring.