HC Deb 15 February 1897 vol 46 cc409-10
MR. J. CALDWELL

I beg to ask the Lord Advocate whether his attention has been called to the provisions of Sections 6, 26, and 30 (d) of The Elections (Scotland) Corrupt and Illegal Practices Act, 1890, regarding scrutiny, striking off of certain voters, and as to whether a candidate was duly elected by a majority of lawful votes; and to Section 5, Schedule B of the General Order regulating the triennial election of school boards in Scotland issued by the Scotch Education Department in October last, wherein no provision is made for marking the number of the elector or otherwise identifying the elector on the counterfoil; and if he can explain how it will be possible, in the event of a scrutiny, to determine how the elector voted and the effect of the vote on the election?

*THE LORD ADVOCATE

In burghs, proceedings at the poll take place under the provisions of the Ballot Act, so that the question of the hon. Member does not apply. In parishes, proceedings take place under the General Order of the Department, and the question does apply. But the subject has been more than once under review, and it is still considered unadvisable to alter the terms of the Order.