HC Deb 18 May 1915 vol 71 c2136
57. Mr. LEACH

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if anything is to be done which will enable the men who may be absent at the War to record their votes at the coming elections?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The Government are fully alive to the importance of ensuring that when an election takes place the men who have been absent on war service shall not have been disqualified for voting. The question as to the best method of attaining this object is receiving full consideration.

Mr. LOUGH

Will the right hon. Gentleman be able to make any announcement about this question before the House rises?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I fear not before the House rises. The matter is receiving daily attention. It is not free from difficulties, and the question is how best to attain the object which, I think, the whole House has in view.

Mr. SANDERSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the claims have to be sent in by July?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I am well aware of the fact that the matter is one of urgency.