HC Deb 03 December 1908 vol 197 cc1629-30
MR. GEORGE ROBERTS

To ask the President of the Local Government Board if his attention has been directed to the practice of paying outdoor relief on the premises of a political club at Wavertree, Liverpool, though the town hall is situated nearly opposite the club in question; whether he can state to what extent this practice prevails; if it meets with his sanction; and, if not, will he take steps to end it.

(Answered by Mr. John Burns.) I am informed that under agreements dating from 1889 the guardians have the use of a large room as a pay station at the Conservative Working Men's Club at Wavertree. The rent paid is £7 a year, which includes heating, cleaning, and accommodation for about 100 persons. The room is used for a short time once a week, and is then exclusively in the occupation of the guardians. No sanction on the part of the Local Government Board has been given in this matter. As regards the town hall, I am informed that it is improbable that any application by the guardians to the corporation for the hire of a room large enough for the purpose for which it would be required would be acceded to.