§ MR. THOMAS SHAW (Hawick Burghs)To ask the Lord Advocate whether his attention has been called to a recent resolution of the magistrates of Hawick on the subject of a special grant during Coronation week to the outdoor poor in Scotland; and whether, in view of the doubts as to the powers of Parish Councils on this subject, any circular or other intimation could be promptly issued by the Local Government Board for Scotland, so that, while extra allowances are to be made to the inmates of poor-houses, some additional grant may also be sanctioned for the outdoor poor of Scotland during the week of the Coronation celebrations.
(Answer.) With reference to the point raised by the hon. Member, I have substantially nothing to add to the general reply I gave to the hon. Member for Clackmannan on the 17th April.† I am informed by the Local Government Board that they answer all inquiries
† See (4) Debates cvi., 543.688 made to them on the subject by local authorities to that effect, and it is not possible for them to issue a circular authorising what would really be illegal payments.—(Scottish Office.)