Letter to the Times

["Paul Spencer" <paul.spencer@boynings.co.uk>]

"There is one important lesson that many of us have learnt from the
parliamentary election, and that is the inadequacy of the voting machine.
There are probably no statistics available, but there is no doubt that a
large number of people were unable to record their votes because they were
away from home on holiday. A good case can be made for adopting a universal
system of voting by post. At present, claims to be placed on the absent
voters lists are restricted by law, but it would be a great convenience if
all electors were enabled to claim top vote by post.

"Bad weather, illness, pressure of work, household duties, or unexpected
absence from home on polling day can prevent people from attending at the
polling stations. So as to overcome these hazards, postal voting should be
extended and made available for every elector at all municipal and
parliamentary elections."

Dated 8 June 1955.

Well, we got there in the end!

Regards

Paul Spencer
Director
Boynings Consulting Ltd
http://boynings.co.uk