Mr. Hussey Vivian, member for Glamorganshire, moved on Tuesday for
a Royal Commission to investigate the present condi- tion of the coal-fields of Great Britain, which he believed to have been unfairly traduced. After an admirable speech, the argument of which we have reproduced elsewhere, he was followed by Mr. Liddell, who endorsed Mr. Vivian's belief that coal would be found throughout the Midland Counties. Mr. M'Cullagh Torren.s moved as an amendment that the inquiry should be intrusted -to the Geological Survey Department, whose amour propre might other- wise be wounded, but Sir George Grey observed that he would rather grant the Royal Commission. That Commission would have the aid of Sir Roderick Murchison, and other gentlemen of the highest scientific attainments, and would not interfere with the regular business of a department, as Mr. Torrens' proposal would. He thought the subject one which deserved a full. inquiry, and mentioned incidentally that he intended to strengthen the laws compelling the consumption of smoke. The Commission-will be composed of owners, manufacturers, and geologists, and its report will be expected with very unusual interest.
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