Professor David Farrell:

They are valid points. I do not disagree with anything the Deputy said but her points group into at least two areas. She referred to the rights of emigrants, migrants and young people, in particular, and they all group in my area to the discussion about franchise and whether the franchise should be extended to groups that are currently not included. A properly developed electoral commission would commission research to explore the issue and come forward with policy proposals.

Second, the Deputy referred to renters. That addresses the question of voter registration, which has come up so often. An electoral commission that is properly constituted would monitor, set down standards, look for good practice, experiment and come forward with proposals for change. I am completely on the same page as the Deputy.