3. c. 83), also known as Gilbert's Act,[1] was a British poor relief law proposed by Thomas Gilbert which aimed to organise poor relief on a county basis, counties being organised into parishes which could set up poorhouses or workhouses between them.

During the 1780s, there was an increase in unemployment and underemployment due to high food prices, low wages and the effects of enclosing land.

This caused poor rates to increase rapidly, which wealthy landowners found unacceptable.

[3] Gilbert was a supporter of the 5th Duke of Bedford, which led to his act being blocked by Charles Wentworth, 2nd Marquess of Rockingham.

Gilbert tried for 17 years to get his bill passed by parliament, eventually succeeding during Rockingham's second term as prime minister.