HC Deb 25 November 1909 vol 13 cc337-8
Mr. JEREMIAH MacVEAGH

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he can state what arrangements have been made by the county council of the county of Down for the adoption of the Polling Districts and Registration of Voters Act; and whether the scheme has been formally approved by the Local Government Board?

Mr. T. L. CORBETT

Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that question I should like to ask him whether he is aware that the question of the hon. Member is prompted by the fact that he is rather nervous about his seat in South Down?

Mr. BIRRELL

No, Sir, it is impossible for me to address myself to that point in whatever part of the House hon. Members sit. but I always understand why questions of that sort are asked.

Mr. J. MacVEAGH

May I assure the hon. Member for North Down (Mr. Corbett) that I shall increase my majority and that he will decrease his?

Mr. BIRRELL

The Local Government Board have not yet received any scheme from the Down County Council under the Polling Districts and Registration of Voters (Ireland) Act, 1908, but they understand that the county council have the matter under consideration.