§ MR. H. H. FOWLERasked the Secretary to the Treasury, Whether the affidavit of executors disclosing the amount of the debts of their testator is not a confidential document for the exclusive use of the Revenue officials; and, if so, if he will state by whose authority the contents of these affidavits are communicated to the public press?
§ LORD FREDERICK CAVENDISHSir, the affidavits referred to in the Question are strictly confidential. Their communication to the Press would be wholly unauthorized, and, if made by an official, would render him liable to dismissal. The subject is now under the consideration of the officials at the Probate Registry, with a view to insure that the particulars contained in the affidavits are not allowed to transpire.