HC Deb 22 March 1923 vol 161 cc2747-8
51. Mr. FRANK GRAY

asked the Prime Minister whether he will initiate legislation requiring any combination, company, association, federation, society, or other organisation, existing for the purpose of gain or otherwise, consisting of more than 20 persons, having for its objects political propaganda and/or political ends, and not already registered under the Companies or Trades Union Acts, to be registered under the former Acts and to file annually in the appropriate Department at Somerset House the names and addresses of the officers of such organisation, a balance sheet, and a list of shareholders or subscribers to the funds?

The PRIME MINISTER

I see no sufficent reason for imposing special obligations on associations formed for political objects.

Mr. GRAY

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that legislation would avoid trouble?

The PRIME MINISTER

That has been debated more than once, and I do not think it would have that effect.