Honorary Freedom of Boroughs Act 1885 - Campaign By Kingston-upon-Hull

Campaign By Kingston-upon-Hull

Fifty years after the passing of the 1835 Act, Kingston upon Hull Town Council wished to have the power to grant the honorary freedom of the borough. Accordingly they made steps to add a clause to a private parliamentary bill for the purpose. The council was supported by the Marquess of Ripon, who held the ceremonial office of High Steward of Kingston upon Hull. When he attempted to promote the clause in the House of Lords, this was opposed by Lord Redesdale, Chairman of Committees, who felt that the measure should be extended to all boroughs. Accordingly a private member's bill was piloted through the Lords by the Marquess of Ripon, and through the Commons by Charles Norwood, one of Hull's MPs.