§ Mr. JOHN WALSHasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that a circular has recently been addressed to the justices at petty sessions in Ireland, intimating that each declaration of secrecy, made under Section 4 of the Ballot Act, 1872, by presiding officers, poll clerks, polling agents, constabulary, and others engaged in connection with the elections of county and rural district councillors now proceeding, must be stamped with petty sessions stamps to the value of 1s.; and 113W whether, in view of the fact that no such imposition of Stamp Duty has hitherto been enforced, and that such imposition will materially increase the expenses attending the elections throughout Ireland, and the expenses of candidates offering themselves for election, he will undertake to have the circular in question withdrawn?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe circular issued did not specify the declarations of secrecy referred to by the hon. Member. It merely called attention to the fact that solemn declarations made before a magistrate (including declarations of secrecy when so made) should be stamped in the manner indicated. A decision has been given in the courts to that effect. The declarations of secrecy mentioned in the question can be made before the Returning Officer, as well as before a magistrate. When made before the Returning Officer no stamp appears to be required. There need not, therefore, be any additional expense.