HC Deb 13 July 1944 vol 401 cc1870-1
20. Mr. Norman Bower

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when the Bill to give effect to the recommendations of the Speaker's Conference regarding the proposed interim redistribution of seats is likely to be introduced.

Mr. H. Morrison

All the recommendations made in the interim Report of the Conference over which you, Sir, presided are receiving the careful consideration of the Government, but I am not at the present moment in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Bower

In view of the strong feeling in very large constituencies, can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that it is intended to deal with it before the General Election?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, I can give that assurance.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman also publish the documents which were submitted to and considered by the Speaker's Conference?

Earl Winterton

Will the right hon. Gentleman be able to say, before the end of the Session, when the legislation will be introduced?

Mr. Morrison

I hope to be. I am very anxious to tell the House the Government's intentions at the earliest possible date; indeed, I think redistribution must be among the first things to be dealt with under the Report which you, Sir, have submitted.

Mr. Bowles

Will the Act of Parliament come before the setting up of the Boundary Commission or will it be the other way round?

Mr. Morrison

The Boundary Commission cannot be set up without an Act of Parliament.

Sir Reginald Blair

Will there be any announcement before the Summer Recess?

Mr. Morrison

I said I hoped to do so. I am only a little hesitant because I am not quite sure, but I will do my best.