MR. J. CARVELL WILLIAMS (Notts, Mansfield)I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that at a recent meeting of the Lambeth Board of Guardians it was reported that a female inmate of the Prince's Road Workhouse, who refused to attend church on Sunday, had been punished by being put for one meal on bread and water; and, whether Poor Law officials have a right to compel the attendance of indoor paupers at public worship and to punish them on their refusal to do so?
§ MR. CHAPLINThe facts are as stated. I am advised that Poor Law officials have a right to require the attendance of indoor paupers not legally exempt as dissenting from the Church of England, at Divine service, and, unless a reasonable excuse is given, to inflict punishment under the regulations as in the case of a disorderly person.