Parliamentary Elections (Compulsory Voting and Public Holiday)

Parliamentary Elections (Compulsory Voting and Public Holiday) Bill – in the House of Commons am 4:11 pm ar 5 Mai 1987.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Mr. Tony Banks accordingly presented a Bill to make voting at Parliamentary Elections compulsory and to establish a public holiday in the area for any Parliamentary election: And the same was read the First time; and ordered to be read a Second time upon 11 June and to be printed. [Bill 148.]

Photo of Mr Roger King Mr Roger King , Birmingham, Northfield

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker, it should be recorded that the House has just introduced a Bill which seeks to introduce compulsory voting, because only approximately 72·3 per cent. of the electorate turn out to vote at a general election; yet the Bill has been passed with only 20 per cent. of the vote, so that the Labour party has proved the point.

Photo of Mr Bernard Weatherill Mr Bernard Weatherill , Croydon North East

The House has decided whether leave should be given to bring in the Bill. It has not been passed as such.