HC Deb 16 April 1964 vol 693 cc84-5W
38. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received in respect of a Saturday being more suitable than a Thursday for polling, in view of the large number of electors who do not return from their employment in London or at a considerable distance from their homes until an inconveniently late hour for polling; and what consultations he has had with the Essex County Council on this matter.

Mr. Woodhouse

My right hon. Friend received representations from the hon. Member, and also from five urban district councils, one rural district council and the Federation of Essex Ratepayers, that it would be more suitable to hold the elections of county councillors in Essex in 1965 on a Saturday than on a Thursday. He consulted the Essex County Council on this matter and after the most careful consideration my right hon. Friend decided that the elections should be held on Thursday 25th March, 1965, as recommended by the county council.