HC Deb 04 December 1958 vol 596 cc1356-7
36. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received under Section 11 of the Representation of the People Act, 1949, urging him to make available sufficient polling stations to encourage and make possible the maximum vote at elections.

Mr. R. A. Butler

Since January, 1957, I have received seven representations. In four instances the local authority concerned agreed to grant the facilities sought, in one case I directed them to do so and in two cases I decided that there were not sufficient grounds for a direction.

Mr. Woodburn

In view of the discussions which took place on the Bill designed to remove the limit on the number of cars which may be used at elections, and the remarks made by the Home Secretary on that occasion, may I ask whether he is taking any steps to see that polling facilities throughout the country will be increased and that it will be made easier for people to vote?

Mr. Butler

There are facilities for increasing the number of polling stations, and I should be glad to see them used. From my point of view, the more polling stations there are and the more efficient is the system the better it would be. I do not think it necessary for me to seek new powers. I will indicate that my attitude towards any application would be a liberal one because of my desire to see that facilities for polling are at the disposal of the electors.