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Proceeding contribution from Chris Bryant (Labour) in the House of Commons on Monday, 18 October 2010. It occurred during Debate on bill and Committee of the Whole House (HC) on Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill.


Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill

The right hon. Gentleman makes an extremely good point, and I am glad that Ministers appear to be taking it on board. Had they presented their changes to the Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland legislation to allow for combined polls, I would be able to present proposals that dealt with that problem. However, because the Government are not proceeding in orderly fashion—they are putting the cart before the horse—I can table an amendment only in relation to the referendum. Should the Government get their act together and present their other proposals, the Opposition would indeed seek to make provision so that people could receive both ballot papers when they present themselves at the polling station. Additionally, some people might say, ““I'm here, but there's a queue. Which of the two ballots should I participate in before the 10 o'clock deadline?”” That could lead to a degree of chaos and disorder in the polling station, particularly in urban areas. The amendment would be an important provision and we need to make it. As I said, I am very hopeful that the Minister will meet my ardent desire and agree to it.


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
516 c742 
Session
2010-12
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Access Disability Accountability Alternative vote Administration Age British nationality Commonwealth British nationals abroad Fees and charges Eligibility Electoral Commission Forms General elections Northern Ireland Private education Referendums Polling stations Scotland Visual impairment Voting methods Schools Young people Reform Wales Voting rights Returning officers
Legislation
Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Bill 2010-12
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk