HC Deb 04 April 1910 vol 16 cc31-2
Mr. J. A. GRANT

asked the Attorney-General if any cases of intimidation affecting votes during the recent General Election are in the cognisance of the Government; if so, will he state the number of such cases, and when and where they took place; and, if such cases are in the knowledge of the Government, whether it is proposed to take any action in the matter under the Corrupt Practices Act?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL (Sir William Robson)

Three cases were called to my attention. The first case was un- accompanied by any particulars. The second was by a private person who is himself taking proceedings. The third was an important and difficult case, in which the party alleged to be intimidated had been advised by counsel, rightly I think, that a conviction was not likely to be obtained. The Government do not propose to take any action.

Sir F. BANBURY

Is the third case one of those alluded to by the Chancellor of the Exchequer?

Mr. DOUGLAS HALL

Do the Government propose to take any steps to protect electors against these wholesale charges brought by Ministers of the Crown?

Earl WINTERTON

Will the Attorney-General send a copy of his answer to the Chancellor of the Exchequer?

Mr. PAGE-CROFT

May I ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Gladstone League will now be dissolved?