HC Deb 27 January 1913 vol 47 cc978-9
52. Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

asked whether, in the event of the Franchise and Registration Bill becoming law during the life of the present Parliament, it is the intention of the Government to intro duce a Redistribution Bill before or after the next election?

The PRIME MINISTER

I can add nothing to the statement I made on this subject on Thursday last.

56. Mr. WEDGWOOD

asked whether, if a Women Suffrage Amendment is carried, and if Mr. Speaker rules that such Amendment necessitates the introduction of a fresh Bill, the Prime Minister will still press on the Bill this Session and see it passed into law in time to become operative before any dissolution is rendered necessary under the terms of the Parliament Act?

The PRIME MINISTER

I shall make a statement on this subject later on.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman when he makes such a statement to bear in mind that both his followers in this House and women in the country attach the utmost importance to one particular point, and that is, that they should have not merely an opportunity—

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question.

Lord HUGH CECIL

When the right hon. Gentleman makes the statement, will he make it in such a Parliamentary form as will render it susceptible of debate?

The PRIME MINISTER

We shall see.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

May I ask the Prime Minister whether he will bear in mind, not merely the giving us an opportunity of voting on this question, but of getting it upon the Statute Book, in spite of the House of Lords, before the next General Election?

The PRIME MINISTER

As I said before, all relevant considerations will be carefully borne in mind.