HC Deb 21 August 1916 vol 85 cc2265-6
57. Mr. WARDLE

asked the Prime Minister if he is in a position to make a statement as to the intentions of the Government with regard to the calling of a representative conference, or the appointment of a Select Committee, to consider the whole question of the franchise and also the question of Redistribution?

58. Sir JOHN SIMON

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the suggestion made by the President of the Local Government Board for the setting up of a representative conference on electoral reform and of his statement that be believed that such a conference would have valuable results, he is able to announce that steps will be promptly taken to summon such a conference?

The PRIME MINISTER

I think that the suggestion made by my right hon. Friend the President of the Local Government Board is a very valuable one, and I hope to be able to give effect to it, and that an indication of the procedure to be adopted may shortly be made.

Sir J. SIMON

Will the Prime Minister consider the putting at the disposal of such conference any legislative drafts that there may be for the extension of the franchise on wide lines, which would prove suitable for such conference to consider?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, Sir; as far as possible, certainly.

Mr. W. THORNE

A Government united one?