HC Deb 02 April 1974 vol 871 cc1084-5
Q1. Mr. Finsberg

asked the Prime Minister if he is satisfied with the coordination between the Home Office and the Department of Health and Social Services in assessing the needs of the disabled in enabling them to cast their vote in elections.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Wilson)

Yes, Sir. Ministers of the two Departments have had discussions on the matter and are considering how the present arrangements can be improved.

Mr. Finsberg

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him to take advantage of the opportunities presented next month by the local elections in London and Scotland to call for reports to his right hon. Friends from returning officers so that we may be able to see the extent of the problem, at least in those two areas?

The Prime Minister

That is a helpful suggestion, and I shall bring it to the notice of my right hon. Friends. Some of the problems of access to polling stations have caused anxiety in the past. The hon. Gentleman or anyone else who has information about the matter, should communicate it to my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, who said that she would have urgent discussions with the Minister for the Disabled.

Mr. Harry Ewing

Does my right hon. Friend agree that the problem extends beyond the disabled, and involves the aged? Will my right hon. Friend consider the inclusion in all pension books of a form to apply for a postal vote? That would eliminate all the difficulties in the way of those wanting postal votes when there are elections.

The Prime Minister

Any hon. Members who can suggest ways to improve these matters should pass on their ideas to the Home Office committee on elections. That committee discusses these matters with the parties and other concerned.