HC Deb 09 November 1908 vol 195 c1717
MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

I beg to ask the Prime Minister whether the Government propose to introduce legislation to render it illegal for anyone to obtain a seat in Parliament by the method of drawing lots.

MR. ASQUITH

I am not aware that the evils, if any, which arise from the present practice are so serious or so widespread as to render legislation necessary.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

May I ask whether, if it be a fact that this arrangement for casting lots for the election of peers exists under the Act of Union, that is not an additional reason for the repeal of that Act?

MR. J. MACVEAGH

May I ask the right hon. Gentlemen whether, in view of the recent gambling in another place, he can say whether that other place is a place within the meaning of the Act?

[No Answer was returned.]