HC Deb 22 November 1928 vol 222 c1889
7. Mr. ROBINSON

asked the Home Secretary whether it is possible to arrange that unemployed persons transferred under the Government transference schemes shall be registered as absent voters in the district whence they are transferred?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I am afraid there is no provision of the Representation of the People Acts under which these persons could be registered as absent voters.

Mr. SHINWELL

Does the hon. and gallant Gentleman recognise that many thousands of persons who will be transferred will, in consequence of this arrangement, be disfranchised?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I know that Quite well, but also, as the hon. Member knows, many people in the ordinary course of employment move about the country in the qualifying period and go back to their original places to vote.

Mr. SHINWELL

Many thousands will be transferred in consequence of the Government's new proposals, and therefore is it not a matter for the Government's consideration?

Sir V. HENDERSON

I fail to see the difference between the one lot of people and the other.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman tyke note that the Socialist party now admits that many thousands are going to be transferred by the Government's scheme?