HC Deb 05 July 1923 vol 166 c598
15. Mr. THORNTON

asked the Home Secretary whether the Public Record Office have made a compilation of additions and corrections to the Writs and Returns of early Members of Parliament since the issue of the last Parliamentary Paper in 1891; and, if this is so, whether the same can now be issued as a Parliamentary Paper?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

A note is kept of all fresh discoveries, and the notes can be consulted by inquirers at the Record Office. As regards the question of the publication of a supplementary list, I am afraid I can add nothing at present to the reply which I gave the hon. Member last Monday.

Mr. THORNTON

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the expense of publishing the lists is prohibitive?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

Expense is, of course, an important consideration, as we are anxious to do anything we can to save money, but there are other considerations besides expense. There is the question of having something approaching nearly to completeness in these returns. As I understand, the records at present leave gaps and it must be better to await an opportunity of filling up the gaps.

Mr. THORNTON

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that these lists are very valuable to historical students?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

That is a matter of opinion.