§ 38. Mr. BILLINGasked the Home Secretary whether, having regard to the desirability of consulting the opinion of a constituency before it is subjected to a system of proportional representation, he would consider the advisability of taking a referendum of the constituency by post, the referendum to explain, if possible, what is meant by proportional representation?
§ Sir G. CAVENo, Sir. The matter is one for the Commissioners, who propose to ascertain local opinion by means of inquiries to be held in the areas which they select for the purpose.
§ Mr. BILLINGHaving regard to the fact that this House no longer represents public opinion in this country and the House of Lords never did, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of consulting the constituencies before this entirely unconstitutional system is inflicted upon them?
§ Sir G. CAVEIt is quite an old practice to ascertain opinion by means of a local inquiry to which all persons are entitled to come and state their views.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that sufficient public notice is given, so that any constituent who wishes to oppose this, is able to be present at such an inquiry and to speak if he so desires?
§ Sir G. CAVEI believe such notice is given.
§ 40. Mr. GULLANDasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the desire in such places as Birmingham and Nottingham that proportional representation should be adopted; and what procedure should be followed to propose to the Royal Commission that inquiries should be held in such places?
§ Sir G. CAVEWith regard to the first part of the question, I have no information. Representations on the subject should be sent direct to the Commissioners, at the office of the Local Government Board.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs it right, while Party is suspended, that this body should be goaded by ex-chief Whips into action which they do not spontaneously adopt?