HC Deb 28 February 1978 vol 945 cc139-40W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) if he proposes to announce, prior to the referendum on the proposed Scottish Assembly, what proportion of the total Scottish electorate he deems to be equivalent to 40 per cent. of those entitled to vote at that referendum;

(2) on what basis he will determine the number of persons entitled to vote in the forthcoming referendum on a Scottish Assembly.

Mr. Harry Ewing

The Government will consider these matters at the appropriate time.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he intends issuing guidelines to the chief counting officers in the proposed referendum on Scottish devolution to indicate when a recount may be necessary to determine whether or not 40 per cent. of those entitled to vote have voted "Yes".

Mr. Harry Ewing

In terms of the Scotland Bill, the chief counting officer, as an independent officer exercising specific statutory responsibilities, is not subject to ministerial direction.

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