§ 41. Mr. LOUGHasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the work of the local authorities in England and Wales in preparing the annual register of voters involves an expenditure of £300,000 per annum and does not commence until the 25th July, so that an opportunity could be given to the House of saving a great proportion, if not the whole, of this sum by enabling it to consider the Bill for postponing elections without further delay; and whether, under these circumstances, he will endeavour to introduce the Bill at once and expedite it at all stages?
§ The PRIME MINISTERSome considerable part of the expense of this year's registration has been already incurred. Notwithstanding the postponement of elections, I do not think it would be for the general convenience to discontinue the registration now in progress. The Bill to which my right hon. Friend refers will be introduced as soon as possible.
§ Mr. JONATHAN SAMUELIs it not essential that this registration should be performed for municipal purposes?
§ Sir A. MARKHAMIs it not essential that revising barristers should have more fees, which are quite unnecessary?
§ Mr. LOUGHDo not the expenses already incurred fall mainly upon candidates and Members, whereas the expenses referred to in the question are those to be incurred by the local authorities, and might not these latter be saved if the Bill were introduced at once?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI was not referring to the expenses of candidates. Of course, the question of local elections is most important.