§ 55. Mr. RYEasked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the recent municipal by-election in the Pall Mall Ward of the City of Westminister in which the unsuccessful candidate only polled eight votes; and whether he will consider the advisability of promoting legislation which will provide for the deposit of a moderate amount in municipal elections, such amount to be forfeited if any candidate polls less than a certain percentage of votes, so that candidatures of a frivolous nature may be discouraged?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have been asked to reply. My attention had not been drawn to the election referred to. The introduction of legislation on the lines of the suggestion in the latter part of the question is not practicable at the present time, but the question will be noted for consideration when any amendment of the law is undertaken.