§ Mr. CorbettTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what educational publicity campaign he plans to undertake, and at what estimated cost, to inform electors of the new voting system for the Scottish Parliament. [69053]
§ Mr. McLeish[holding answer 3 February 1999]: The Government believe that voters have a right to understand how the new electoral arrangements will work and is therefore planning a substantial publicity campaign to inform voters about the new voting system for the Scottish Parliament. I am pleased to say that we have had helpful and constructive discussions with the Opposition parties 170W about our proposals. The campaign will feature a mix of press, television, radio and leaflets and will begin in mid-February. There will also be information about registration and absent voting. We estimate the total cost will be approximately £2.5 million.