A bill passed in England, 1851, making the assumption by Catholics of episcopal titles, in the United Kingdom, a penal offense. It declared all acts performed, and all gifts made under such titles, null and void, and property bequeathed to such persons, forfeited to the crown. Growing out of the anti-popery agitation precipitated by the creation of a Catholic heirarchy in England, it was opposed by the Liberals, and treated indifferently by the Conservatives. Gladstone courageously seconded Cardinal Wiseman's able opposition, and the bill remained a dead letter until repealed 20 years, later, during Gladstone's first premiership.