HC Deb 30 July 1908 vol 193 c1762
MR. BEAUMONT (Sussex, Eastbourne)

I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that, after the town of Eastbourne had applied under the Local Government Act, 1888, to be created a county borough, the town authorities at the request of the Local Government Board took a special census of the inhabitants, which showed a population of over 50,000; and, if so, what were the special reasons why the consideration of Eastbourne's application has been either refused or deferred.

MR. JOHN BURNS

I am aware of the facts stated in the Question. The informal census taken by the town council showed a population of 50,696 only, and having regard to the small margin of population above 50,000 thus shown, it appeared to the Local Government Board that the consideration of the application that Eastbourne should be made a county borough should be deferred until after the next ordinary census, when the precise population would be more accurately ascertained.

MR. BEAUMONT

Why did the local Government Board insist on putting Eastbourne to the expense of a special census and then decline to abide by the result? Will the right hon. Gentlemen order a special census to be taken by the Registrar-General?

MR. JOHN BURNS

The Local Government Board asked Eastbourne to take a special census believing they would do so accurately, but it was not taken under circumstances which ensured its reliability to the extent which was necessary to justify us in conferring on Eastbourne that which Eastbourne was demanding.

MR. BEAUMONT

Will the right hon. Gentlemen direct the Registrar-General to take a census which can be relied upon?

MR. JOHN BURNS

I will consider that.