HC Deb 01 November 1916 vol 86 cc1701-2
24. Mr. HAZLETON

asked whether the final result of the referendum on Conscription in Australia is yet to hand and, if so, what are the figures; and, if not, when the result is likely to be declared?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not know when the final result of the referendum on Conscription in Australia is likely to be declared.

25. Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he can state the latest return of voting in the referendum on Conscription in Australia?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have no information beyond what has appeared in the Press.

58. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Secretary of State for War whether a vote in reference to the question of Conscription in Australia was begun but not terminated among Australian troops now stationed in England; and, if so, whether he can give an explanation of these events?

Mr. FORSTER

I understand that the voting was begun three weeks ago and was wholly completed by Saturday, 28th October. The hon. Member will realise that it had to be conducted with reference to the naval and military situation.

Mr. LYNCH

May I ask if it is the fact that after certain Australian soldiers had recorded their votes those votes were torn up and a fresh vote instituted?

Mr. FORSTER

I am not aware of that at all. I do not know that the War Office is concerned with it.

Mr. LYNCH

Will any inquiry be made?

Mr. HAZLETON

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether the arrangements were conducted on behalf of the War Office or on behalf of the Australian Government by officials?

Mr. FORSTER

I should like notice of that question.

62. Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that General Birdwood, the Imperial officer commanding the Australian Forces in France, issued a personal appeal by letter to Australian soldiers in France and Great Britain urging them to vote for Conscription for Australia in connection with the referendum; and can he state whether this action was taken by direction of the War Office or of the Commonwealth authorities?

Mr. FORSTER

I know nothing of such an appeal, and the War Office was not consulted on the subject.