The Encyclopedia Americana (1920)/Reform Bills

REFORM BILLS, in English history three bills, introduced in 1832, 1867 and 1882, for the purpose of increasing the electorate for the House of Commons and removing certain inequalities in representation. The first Reform Bill disfranchised many boroughs which enjoyed undue representation and increased that of the large towns, at the same time extending the franchise, and was put through by the Liberals. The bill of 1867 was passed by the Conservatives under the urging of the Liberals, while that of 1882 was introduced by the Liberals and passed in 1884; these two provided a more democratic representation. See Great Britain; Political Parties; Parliament.