HC Deb 30 June 1898 vol 60 cc641-2
MR. LOGAN (Leicester, Harborough)

I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board if he is aware that the overseers of the parish of Terring- ton St. John (Wisbech Union) have laid a rate which includes a certain amount to be paid to the School Board of Terrington St. John, without having received any precept from the School Board; and if he will take steps to prevent the collection of a rate for which no precept has been issued?

THE PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD

I have made inquiry and ascertained that, in consequence of the absence of certain members of the School Board, there was not a quorum, and no precept could be issued to the overseers. The overseers, having to levy a poor rate, included in the rate an estimated amount in respect of the expenses of the School Board, although no precept had actually been issued. The overseers were aware that funds would be required by the School Board. They had no moneys in hand to meet a precept. I cannot say that under these circumstances they were not entitled to take that course, and in any case I have no authority to interfere.