Rhoda Garrett asks why not It will be remembered that the Women's Disabilities Bill was thrown out the other day in the Commons , although 160 members either voted or paired in favour of the second reading . A crowded meeting was held on May 17th at Hanover Square Rooms in support of the movement , which aims at the same parliamentary franchise that women now enjoy for municipal purposes . This demand seems so harmless and logical that some persons may wonder at the opposition it excited in Parliament . Dr Lyon Playfair presided , but the other speakers were ladies , and they showed such talent that no wonder our M.P.'s fear to meet them in debate . The chief speakers , were Mrs Fawcett , Mrs Mark Pettison , Mrs Ernestine Rose , Miss Lydia E Becker , and Miss Rhoda Garrett 1872