Clause 1 - Piloting conduct at European and local elections

Part of European Parliamentary and Local Elections (Pilots) Bill – in a Public Bill Committee at 10:45 pm on 28 October 2003.

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Photo of David Heath David Heath Shadow Spokesperson (Home Affairs) 10:45, 28 October 2003

I agree with the hon. Gentleman. I hope that, as matters now transpire, we will have a little more time for the Committee, and I look forward to that eventuality. I accept that, like me, he produced amendments to a short time scale. I hope that he will accept that I am not criticising his draftsmanship in any way. I am simply saying that the detail of his amendment is not quite right, but that its sentiment should nevertheless be debated and endorsed.

If the pilots are to be a success, we need to consult properly with those who will be charged with the responsibility of carrying them out: returning officers and local authorities. We must know the practicalities, and give those involved the opportunity to express any concerns that they might have. For instance, some issues were raised on Second Reading about the Scottish highlands and islands. Practical difficulties undoubtedly may arise in some of the remoter parts of Scotland, in terms of providing for the arrangements. The same may well apply in Wales and in the remoter parts of rural England—not least in my own constituency. I have every confidence that ballot papers will be returned marked ''eaten by snails'', as sometimes happens with post that is left in some of the wetter post boxes in my constituency.

There are practical difficulties that ought to be taken into account. If the process allows for consultation and parliamentary scrutiny of the outcome, we can move forward with the confidence that the issues are being addressed. If we impose a solution by diktat on large tracts of the country—that is what will happen if there are three regional pilot trials—without taking into account the views of local authorities and returning officers, that will be a recipe for disaster at some point. We should avoid that if at all possible, which is why I have doubts about amendment No. 16. However, I can see the merit in amendment No. 18.