§ 37. Mr. JOHN HARRISasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the strong feeling which exists against the practice of inundating Members of Parliament with demands for pledges upon the details of specific subjects in advance 866 of legislation; and whether, seeing that this practice has become an abuse, deprecated by all political parties, he will consider introducing at an early date legislation with a view to placing Sonia limits upon it?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid cannot adopt the suggestion of the hon. Member to deal with this growing evil.
Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALLDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that it is advisable, in view of what has Taken place, that candidates at elections should make no promises whatever?
§ Mr. THURTLEDid not the right hon. Gentleman indicate a few weeks ago that hon. Members could solve this question themselves by exhibiting a little more backbone?
§ Mr. A. M. SAMUELCould not the difficulty be got over in this way? Could not the three leaders of the various parties agree upon a formula and sign it, so that every candidate would be able to set that formula before the electors?