§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a Second time."—[The Attorney-General.]
§ 2.18 p.m.
§ Mr. Manningham-Buller (Daventry)I think this is a singularly appropriate time to introduce a consolidation Bill dealing with elections. This one deals with the appointment of Election Commissioners, and, as I see it, combines the effect of past Statutes going right back to 1852. However, although I think this Bill is well timed, I must express the hope that in the forthcoming election Election Commissioners will not find much need for any activity. To satisfy people's curiosity, perhaps I should say that there is in this Bill nothing dealing with the expenses incurred by certain industries in defending themselves from unwarranted attacks.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI must point out that this Bill does have something to do with the question of corrupt and illegal practices. But I have no doubt that in view of the elucidation of the law which we have recently had last week in regard to these matters—
§ Mr. Baldwin (Leominster)By whom?
§ The Attorney-General—that corrupt and illegal practices of this kind will not occur.