HC Deb 01 July 1897 vol 50 cc859-60
MR. J. CALDWELL (Lanark, Mid)

On behalf of the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty (Mr. J. G. WEIR), I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether it is the practice within the Metropolitan area to classify as paupers patients who are under treatment in County Asylums, notwithstanding the fact that the cost of maintenance is provided by the relatives or friends of the patients; and, if so, whether it is proposed to take any steps to amend the present system of classification

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir MATTHEW WHITE RIDLEY,) Lancashire, Blackpool

I am informed that all patients in County Asylums are classed as paupers whose maintenance is paid for by the Guardians, although it may be that in some cases the Guardians are partially recouped by sums received from relatives. I have no information which would lead me to think that a grievance exists, but I will make further inquiry.