HC Deb 18 February 1908 vol 184 c639
MR. THORNE (West Ham, S.)

I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board if his attention has been called to the overcrowding at the Lambeth Workhouse to the extent of 257 inmates, and to the fact that, in consequence, number of them are sleeping on the floor; and if he intends taking any action in the matter.

MR. JOHN BURNS

My attention has been called to the overcrowding of the Lambeth Workhouses. Certain alterations have been made which have enabled the numbers for which the workhouses are certified to be enlarged, and the guardians are now making arrangements whereby further accommodation will be provided. The matter will continue to receive my attention.

MR. MYER (Lambeth, N.)

Has the Local Government Board no power to compel reactionary authorities to put into operation the Act relating to the unemployed?

MR. JOHN BURNS

Not a great deal of power, but what persuasion I could I have exercised.