§ MR. THORNE (West Ham, N.)To ask the President of the Local Government Board if his attention has been called to the overcrowding of the West Ham Union workhouse to the extent of 272 inmates; and if he intends taking any action in the matter.
(Answered by Mr. John Burns.) I am aware that the number of inmates of the workhouse is about 272 in excess of that for which it is certified. Two old schoolrooms have, however, been converted into 983 dormitories and are in occupation. They take eighty-three of this number, thus reducing the excess to 189. The old schools are about to be used as part of the workhouse, and thus further accommodation will be provided. One block, which will take fifty beds, will be occupied in a few days, and five other blocks, each taking the same number, will be brought into use in succession as speedily as possible.