§ Mr. WILLIAM THORNEasked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that at the recent municipal election at East Ham, in the Plashet Ward East, about 150 electors who arrived at the polling booth before eight o'clock could not vote in consequence of being unable to get to the polling tables by 8 p.m; whether he is prepared to have investigation made; and if he can state whether the Government have any intention of bringing about legislation to prevent people being disenfranchised?
§ The PRESIDENT of the LOCAL-GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. Burns)I do not find that I have received any representations in regard to this matter in connection with the recent municipal election at East Ham. I could not undertake to introduce legislation on the subject, but I have taken note of the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIn consequence of the gravity of this question I wish to ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he will refer the matter to the Law Officers of the Crown with the view of having a circular sent round to the polling authorities so as to insure that every man who gets into the polling booth before eight o'clock shall have an opportunity of recording his vote?