Captain TERRELLasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the spring register of electors, which is published and comes into force on 15th April each year, is issued too late for the election of county, district, and parish councillors and boards of guardians and that consequently it is practically useless except for occasional by-elections that may occur; and whether, in view of this fact, he will introduce legislation to discontinue the preparation and printing of this register and effect a considerable saving of public money?
§ Mr. SHORTTI am aware that the ordinary elections of the local authorities referred to are held before the Spring Register comes into force; but as that Register would apply to any general or by-election to this House which might be held during six months of the year, I cannot assent to the conclusion suggested by the hon. and gallant Member that the Register is useless.