In Britain, Benjamin Disraeli introduces a Parliamentary Reform Bill in the House of Commons

Benjamin Disraeli introduced plans in the Commons for the moderate reform of the parliamentary franchise in Britain. The bill would have extended the franchise and redistributed seats in parliament, largely in favor of the Conservatives. The measure was doomed, though, since Conservatives themselves were divided on the measure and opposition Liberals and Radicals remained to strong for such a partisan bill to prevail. When it ultimately was voted down, the Conservative Government resigned. Significant reform of the franchise only came eight years later, in 1867. (By John Osborne)