§ MR. KEIR HARDIEI beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that the guardians of 214 Poor Law Unions in England and Wales have this year adopted a resolution in favour of the Government and the Local Government Board proceeding without delay with measures for the consolidation and codification of the laws relating to the relief of the poor, and the Orders issued by his Department for the administration thereof; and what action, if any, he proposes taking in the matter.
§ MR. GERALD BALFOURI am aware of the resolution passed by boards of guardians on the subject referred to. I realise the advantages which would result from consolidating the law relating to the relief of the poor, but I am afraid I could not hold out any prospect of legislation on the subject during the present session. The question of consolidating the Poor Law Orders is, however, receiving attention.
§ MR. KEIR HARDIEWill the Government appoint a small Committee to inquire into the possibility of legislation?
§ ME. GERALD BALFOURNo, Sir, we have no such intention.