HC Deb 17 March 1949 vol 462 cc2268-70
35. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what step he is taking to ensure that every county constituency is so divided that there shall be a separate polling place for every parish; and what representations he has received from local authorities under Section 7 of the Representation of the People Act, 1948.

Mr. Ede

I issued a circular in October drawing the attention of county councils to Section 7, and the responsibility for giving effect to its requirements in county constituencies rests on them. I have received no representation under the Section from any local authority.

Mr. Turton

In view of the pledge which the Minister himself gave that there would be a separate polling station in every parish, will be at an early date cause a review to be made of the complaints made by local authorities in regard to the carrying out of his pledge?

Mr. Ede

I have given instructions in the matter. I can say to the House that, taking rural counties as a whole, there has already been a substantial increase in the number of polling stations. For example, in Buckinghamshire there are an additional 65, in Nottinghamshire an additional 84, and in Warwickshire an additional 80. I am keeping the subject under review, for I regard this matter as an essential part of the reforms enacted in the Representation of the People Act.

Mr. Turton

Will the Home Secretary say whether those increases ensure a separate polling station in every rural parish?

Mr. Ede

No, I would not say that they go as far as that, but at any rate they are a substantial improvement on what existed in the past. If they are not sufficient, additional polling stations will be provided.

Mr. Manningham-Buller

Did not the right hon. Gentleman give his word that there would be a separate polling station in every parish, except in exceptional circumstances?

Mr. Ede

Yes, I did and I intend to see that it is carried out. The figures I gave were only a few from a list which I have here, and which indicates that I have met with a very considerable measure of success.

Mr. Nicholson

What remedy has an elector if there is not a polling station provided in his parish?

Mr. Ede

The local authority in each area—that includes a parish council or parish meeting—can make a representation to me. Any 30 electors can also make a representation to me.