HC Deb 31 March 1920 vol 127 cc1245-6
45. Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of introducing a Bill to establish the system of proportional representation or alternative votes at Parliamentary elections?

Mr. BONAR LAW (Leader of the House)

I am not prepared to adopt my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Why does the Government consider proportional representation a good thing for Ireland and not for this country?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I hardly like to argue this question by way of question and answer.

Mr. RAFFAN

Has the Government decided not to adopt any of these principles at any time or during the present Session of Parliament?

Mr. BONAR LAW

"Any time" is very distant.

Sir E. CARSON

Will my right hon. Friend consider the expediency of repealing the Act applying proportional representation to Ireland?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am not prepared to consider that suggestion either.

Mr. DEVLIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman support a Bill for England and Wales, on the lines of the Act for Ireland, if I introduce it?

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