§ Mr. BOTTOMLEYasked the Prime Minister whether, with a view to securing the freest possible expression of the will of the people by their duly elected representatives, he would favour the introduction of the system of voting by ballot in this House, and making it an offence punishable by heavy penalties for any Whip or other party official to infringe the secrecy of such ballot?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)The answer is in the negative.
§ Mr. BOTTOMLEYWould it be convenient for the right hon. Gentleman to vouchsafe any reason for that somewhat comprehensive answer?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, Sir; I shall be very glad to discuss the matter with my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. STEEL-MAITLANDWill the right hon. Gentleman receive a deputation on the subject?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat depends upon who the deputation is.