§ MR. C. J. O'DONNELL (Newington, Walworth)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that a number of voters were shut out and prevented from voting at the recent borough council elections in consequence of the polling stations being closed at 8 p.m., and whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce legislation next year to extend the hours of polling to 10 p.m.
§ THE SECRETARY TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. RUNCIMAN, Dewsbury)Perhaps I may be allowed to answer this Question. I do not find that the Local Government Board have received any representations as to voters being prevented from voting at the recent elections of borough councillors on the ground to which my hon. friend refers. Note will be taken of the suggestion for legislation on the subject, but no promise could be given at the present time to introduce a Bill with regard to it next year.