HC Deb 02 February 1897 vol 45 c1056
SIR WALTER FOSTER

I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he has received any and, if so, what representations on the subject of the new Order for the election of parish councils, which deprives one elector of the right to demand a poll for the election of parish councillors, and orders that a poll cannot be taken unless the chairman assents, or it is demanded by five electors present at the meeting, or by one-third of those present, whichever number is least?

MR. CHAPLIN

I have received no representation since the Order referred to was issued, adverse to the course which has been adopted in this matter.

SIR WALTER FOSTER

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman apart from representations, whether he has considered if this Order does not contravene the words of the Statute, inasmuch as it takes away from the electors the power to demand a poll on a question of expense?

MR. CHAPLIN

I think, Sir, the Order is strictly carried out.