§ Mr. Tony Marlow (Northampton, North)On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. This is an important and somewhat urgent matter, and I am sure that the whole House, particularly in view of the urgency, will value your opinion and advice.
In the notes, "House of Commons Stationery and Post Paid Envelopes", paragraphs 4 and 5, which deal with circulars, state that such circulars, with
Crowned Portcullis or the Royal Arms, whether or not associated with the words 'House of Commons'…must not be used…in…supporting the return of any person to public office.I understand that there have been reports from west Derbyshire that a large number of circulars have been circulated with the name of the right hon. Member for Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale (Mr. Steel) on them, postulating and supporting the candidature of a certain gentleman for this House. It seems to me that that does not comply with those particular notes.Unaccountably, no Liberal Members are present. It may well be that one could be found, and could disagree with my point and tell us that this is not the case. Were it to be the case, in view of the imminence of the by-election tomorrow, it would be a service to the House and, particularly, to the Liberal party if you could let us know, Mr. Speaker, whether that is a proper practice. If it is not a proper practice, I am sure that that party will do all in its power to withdraw the circulars.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Gentleman correctly read from the guidance to Members about how the crowned portcullis should and should not be used. He mentioned "reports" in west Derbyshire. If he will let me have the evidence, I shall look into the matter.