House of Commons
Saturday, May 5 1804
Minutes
Lord Althorpe took the oaths and his seat for the borough of Oakhampton. — The Loan bill for 14,500,000l. for the demand of G. Britain, the Irish Loan bill, and the Wine Duties' bill, severally passed the committee, and were ordered to be reported on Monday.—The Militia Subalterns' bill was reported, and ordered to be read a 3d time on Monday.—Mr. Robert Mitford, from the Commissioners of the Customs in Scotland, presented, "An Estimate of Duties charged in that part of G. Britain called Scotland, and outstanding on Bond or otherwise, on the 5th Jan. 1803 and 5th Jan. 1804 respectively; distinguishing the several articles, and temporary from permanent duties;" also, "An Account of the total amount of the Arrears and current Balances due on the 5th Jan. 1803, from the Officers of Excise in Scotland, from the 5th Jan. 1774, so far as the same can be made up." Ordered to lie upon the table.
Ramsay Harbour
brought up the report of the committee for improving the harbour of Ramsay, in the isle of Man. The report stated, that the harbour was very difficult of access, owing to the want of a long pier. It then suggested various improvements, which, if carried into effect, would prove highly beneficial to the trade of that island.
understood it was intended to make Ramsay a port, thereby creating an expense of probably 100,000l. It also involved a question of policy, as if Ramsay was made a port, a certain establishment of officers would be necessary. Besides, he had never heard that any survey had been taken, or any estimate made on the subject.
stated, that a survey had been taken, and the expense would not exceed 10,000l. It was a favourite object with the merchants of Liverpool, Ireland, and all those who navigated St. George's Channel. After a few words from Mr. W. Dundas, Mr. Rose in explanation, and Sir W. Elford, the report was ordered to be printed.
Mr. Curwen presented a petition from the merchants and ship owners of Maryport, in the isle of Man, in favour of the proposed measure.—Ordered to lie upon the table.—Adjourned.