§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ 10.1 pm
§ The Solicitor-General (Sir Ian Percival)I beg to move, That the Bill be now read a Second time.
The Bill is pure consolidation, bringing together in one measure much of the existing law on elections and electoral procedure. There was a previous consolidation into the Representation of the People Act 1949, but because of changes since then in many different Acts it is time to consolidate the provisions again.
This major consolidation brings together in one statute much of the matter that is important in this context. The Joint Committee on Consolidation, etc., Bills, to which, as always, we are greatly indebted, has considered the Bill in the normal way and is satisfied that it is pure consolidation and represents the existing law.
§ Mr. Arthur Davidson (Accrington)This is a pure consolidation Bill and a major consolidation Bill. I echo the sentiments expressed by the right hon. and learned Gentleman the Solicitor-General and pay tribute also to the Joint Consolidation Committee, as it is time I said something about one of these consolidation Bills.
§ Question put and agreed to.
§ Bill accordingly read a Second time.
§ Bill committed to a Committee of the whole House.—[Mr. Garel-Jones.]
§ Bill immediately considered in Committee; reported without amendment.
§ Motion made, and Question, That the Bill be now read the Third time, put forthwith pursuant to Standing Order No. 56 (Third Reading), and agreed to.
§ Bill accordingly read the Third time and passed, without amendment.