§ Sir H. NIELDasked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware of Resolutions passed by the town council of Ealing recording a unanimous opinion that no person of enemy alien birth, whether naturalised or un-naturalised, should have any right whatever to vote at Parliamentary or local government elections, and should be disabled from being elected to Parliament or holding any public office, and that they view with considerable apprehension the undesirable eventualities which may arise at the ensuing election should their names remain on the register, and also that the council consider that, for the maintenance of the Empire's integrity, Parliament should immediately pass a Bill whereby all such voters will automatically come off the register; and whether he will consider the advisability of giving effect to such resolutions?
Mr. FISHERI have seen the resolution referred to. To carry out its purpose would require legislation. That is a matter for the decision of the Government, and not of the Local Government464W Board. I cannot, however, make any announcement respecting legislation of the kind suggested.