HC Deb 05 May 1938 vol 335 cc1016-7
39. Rear-Admiral Beamish

asked the Home Secretary whether he will make arrangements whereby facilities may be afforded to chronic invalids to record their votes at Parliamentary elections on lines similar to those accorded to absent voters?

Sir S. Hoare

Legislation would be necessary to give effect to my hon. and gallant Friend's proposal. The proposal is not free from difficulty, but it has been noted for consideration when opportunity arises.

Rear-Admiral Beamish

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that such a concession would be a great boon to a large number of intelligent citizens? Is it not a principle which already obtains in this House in regard to recording the votes of hon. Members who are blind or who are chronic invalids?

Sir S. Hoare

That may be so, but this proposal administratively is not free from difficulty. I can tell my hon. and gallant Friend that it will be kept in mind in any legislation dealing with the subject.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Is this question due to the result of recent by-elections?

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