THE REFORM BILL.
[To THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR"] Sin,—In the many able articles which have appeared in your lately respecting the approaching Reform of Parlia- mentary representation, I have not observed a reference to the- question of Residence. A fertile source of uncertainty in the- results of borough elections is the nomadic character of the smaller householder and the lodger. In consequence of the long- period of residence in one house requisite to qualify for a vote, it would be quite possible for three elections to take place in the same borough, at intervals of six months, each with a different result, in consequence of the change of the electorate, those- qualified in one election having become disqualified in the next, and others meanwhile having completed the required period of residence.
I could from personal knowledge give numbers of instances of householders remaining fully qualified to vote during several, years, and nevertheless being unable to take part in two genera, elections, having changed their residence just before each elec- tion. If a general election were absolutely certain to take place- at a particular date, these people might adjust their arrange- ments accordingly ; but a man can scarcely be expected to wait a year, or perhaps longer, for the possibility of this event occur- ring. A material shortening of the period of residence, or better still, an abolition of any requirement of residence in favour of a simple proof of having been qualified in some part of the United, Kingdom during twelve months preceding, would influence elec- tions to an unimagined extent, whilst the safeguard against unsubstantial voters would still be retained.
I hope this suggestion may induce you to deal with the point, when next treating of the coming Reform, as an amendment of the law in the direction indicated would, whilst in accordance with perfect justice, probably considerably strengthen the Liberal party.—I am, Sir, &c., ROWLAND ESTCOURT. National Liberal Club, November 26th.
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