HC Deb 29 November 1926 vol 200 cc832-3
76. Mr. REMER

asked the Home Secretary if, in view of the difficulty which old people and invalids have in voting at Municipal Elections in November, he will consider legislation to change the date of these elections to a date in the summer months?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The question of changing the date was raised some years ago, but there was much difference of opinion among municipal authorities on the subject. I am afraid that it would not be possible to propose legislation for this purpose unless it is clear that it is generally desired.

Mr, REMER

Will my right hon. Friend take steps to inquire from the municipal authorities as to their views on the subject and is he aware that a great many people think that the so-called apathy at the, last election was caused by the deplorable weather?

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

Would the right hon. Gentleman say what is the special reason why the winter season is maintained for the holding of these elections?

Sir W. YOYNSON-HICKS

With regard to the first supplementary question, I think it better that the organisation which represents the municipal corporations should consider the matter first. If they make representations to me as a body I should, of course, give very careful consideration to them, but I see no reason at the moment for circularising municipalities. With regard to the second question, I think it is because the weather is bad at this time of the year that people do not look upon it as a good thing to vote.

Mr. SCRYMGEOUR

What is the reason for the maintenance of the winter months, which are not so advantageous to the public interest?

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Is not the great trouble getting the young people to vote?