The House of Lords has referred Mr. Torrens' Bill for
im prove- ing Artisans' and Labourers' dwelling-houses to a select committee, but appears willing to accept it. The second reading was proposed by Lord Chehnsford, who gave a frightful picture of the over- crowding in our great cities, and more especially in London, where scores of families have been found in which mothers and sons, brothers and sisters, husbands, their wives, and strangers have all been found huddled, not only in the same room, but the same bed,—and was strongly supported by Lord Shaftesbury. Lord Porttnan, however, observed, that the Bill would in no degree prevent this evil, as it does not prohibit overcrowding, but over- crowding in places unfit for human habitation. The real merit of the measure is, that it will compel landlords to make repairs, lay on water, and construct water-closets,--that is, to do their part of the work. If they do not do it their houses are to be closed, or purchased by the Board of Health or other local authority. The evils of overcrowding must be dealt with separately, and will not be abolished till the State goes to the improvement of London, as it would go to war,—with a clear determination to win, and a contempt for the cost of winning.
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