MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEasked the Attorney-General whether his attention has been called to certain meetings in favour of the National Insurance Act recently held under the auspices of the West Norfolk Liberal Associations, at 36 which refreshments and cigars were advertised and given free; whether he proposes to take any action with regard to such meetings, in view of the Corrupt Practices Act; and, if not, whether the Act will be so amended as to include them?
§ The SOLICITOR-GENERAL (Sir J. Simon)The Attorney-General has asked me, in his absence, to give his answer. It is not open to the Attorney-General to take any action under the Corrupt Practices Act or otherwise with regard to such meetings. If the Noble Lord means to suggest that legislation is desirable which would forbid the free distribution of refreshments or cigars at meetings or smoking concerts or similar functions held under the auspices of political associations of whatever complexion, and if a Bill with that object could be treated as non-controversial, the suggestion would be considered.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEHave the Government any intention of introducing such a Bill? In the meantime will one be equally immune from prosecution if a money equivalent is given for the cigars?
§ Sir J. SIMONThe Noble Lord must give me the cigar before I can answer.