ABSTRACT
In the aftermath of the budget’s defeat, Peel put down a motion of no confidence in the government, which he introduced in this speech. His argument was
first, that her Majesty’s Government do not sufficiently possess the confidence of the House of Commons to enable them to carry through the House measures which they deem of essential importance to the public welfare; and secondly, that their continuance in office under such circumstances, is at variance with the spirit of the constitution.
The speech contains an extended historical survey of the circumstances under which different administrations were dissolved, as a result of loss of confidence in the House of Commons. Peel concentrated on this strictly constitutional ground, rather than engaging in extended discussion of specific policies.
