§ MR. PIKE PEASE (Darlington)To ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he can state the total amount of balances in hand and surpluses now in the hands of the guardians of England and Wales over and 201 above that needed for current expenditure.
(Answered by Mr. John Burns.) I have no information as to the amount of the balances now in the hands of boards of guardians in England and Wales.
MR. PIKE PEASETo ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that many boards of guardians in London levy a rate greater than their current expenditure, thus leading to balances in hand and surpluses amounting to many thousands of pounds; and, if so, whether he proposes to take any steps to stop this practice.
(Answered by Mr. John Burns.) I am not aware that it is the practice of many boards of guardians in London to call for excessive contributions from the rates, nor have I received any recent complaints on the subject It must be borne in mind that where the expenditure is large it is necessary that the guardians should have a considerable working balance in hand.