§ MR. BROADHURST (Nottingham, W.)I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that a labourer named Henry Mann, living at Winburgh, Norfolk, whose average earnings (in consequence of his being a cripple) do not exceed 6s. per week, has been ordered by the Mitford and Launditch Board of Guardians at their meeting on 21st March to contribute the sum of 1s. per week towards the support of his imbecile son, who is an inmate of the Mitford Union; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to interfere in this case in the interest of Henry Mann?
§ * MR. RITCHIEI have made inquiry of the Guardians respecting the case of Henry Mann, whose son is an inmate of the Mitford and Launditch Workhouse. I am informed that the Guardians do not admit that Mann's earnings are only six shillings per week, and they are making further inquiries as to his means. The Guardians are not empowered to make any order as to the payment to be made by Mann; but they have informed him that they will take proceedings against him before the Justices if he does not arrange to pay one shilling per week towards the cost of the maintenance of his son. In the event of proceedings being instituted by the Guardians, it will be a question for the Justices to determine whether Mann is of sufficient ability to make any payment towards his son's maintenance, and the Justices are only empowered to make such order as the means of the person would justify.
§ MR. BROADHURSTI would ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, if there is any additional evidence, he will give the case further consideration?
§ * MR. RITCHIECertainly, Sir. If the hon. Member has any additional evidence I shall be glad to consider it.