HC Deb 03 July 1969 vol 786 cc642-3
Q7. Mr. Marten

asked Minister if he will make an to Swindon.

The Prime Minister

I have no plans to do so at present, Sir.

Mr. Marten

Can the Prime Minister say how long this section of the electorate, which is quite near my own constituency, will remain unrepresented in the House? Will the Prime Minister possibly consider the proposal that a time limit should be fixed by when a by-election must be held after a seat becomes vacant?

The Prime Minister

I thought that the hon. Gentleman had this in mind. His Question relates to an official visit to Swindon. I am always pleased to visit that very distinguished part of the country. The hon. Gentleman will understand that in making my plans I shall have to go to Swindon via Ludlow, which was deprived of representation for 28 weeks between the vacancy and the issuance of the writ by the Government of which he was a member.