14 FEBRUARY 1941, Page 3

There is considerable talk at the moment about tte growing

disfranchisement of many constituencies. There was, perhaps, a case for Sir Stafford Cripps retaining his seat ; there may, perhaps, be a case for Sir Samuel Hoare remaining as the member for Chelsea ; if so, there is an equally good case for Mr. Malcolm MacDonald remaining as member for Ross and Cromarty. The post of High Commissioner is almost exactly comparable to that of Ambassador and it is merely an historical accident that a special Bill will be needed to authorise the proceeding. Captain Ramsay's constituency is unrepresented, Marylebone and North Hammersmith wish to be rid of their members. Half a dozen Deputy-Commissioners hold positions of profit under the Crown, whether or not they accept the actual salaries.