Time of Election and Term of Office of Members of Assembly

Part of Orders of the Day — Scotland and Wales Bill – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 1 February 1977.

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Photo of Mr Eric Heffer Mr Eric Heffer , Liverpool, Walton 12:00, 1 February 1977

I have a great deal of sympathy with the amendment.

We have heard a lot about the last election, particularly from the right hon. Member for Down, South (Mr. Powell). The people of Walton did not make this their main topic of conversation during that election compaign. I can remember no meeting during that election—I addressed quite a few, both in that constituency and in others—at which this matter was raised. I can remember many other issues being raised, but not that one. Therefore, I do not think that the electors had any reflection, let alone mature reflection, on the question, because at that stage they had not even thought about it. I am not surprised at that, because it is usual that, when electors think about such matters, they do so because they have been discussed, in the country and in the Press, for a considerable time.

It is true that they have thought about the subject in Scotland, and to a limited degree in Wales. The Labour Party of Wales has suggested a new local authority structure, with a Council of Wales as the top tier. It did not put forward the type of proposals that we are now told we have to support.

It would be a good idea to have both the system suggested in the amendment and a referendum. I am opposed to neither.