§ Mr. H. W. CARR-GOMMasked whether the Local Government Board auditor has presented his audit of the financial transactions of the London County Council in connection with the sale of the Thames steamboats; and, if not, will he say when this audit will be made?
§ Mr. BURNSI understand that the sums paid for the boats have all been received during the financial year ending on the 31st March next. Hence the matter will 1074 come before the auditor when he holds his audit of the accounts for that year. This he will do as soon as practicable after its close.
§ Mr. CARR-GOMMMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether, considering the serious nature of the sale, he will give special attention to this matter, with a view to holding a public inquiry?
§ Mr. BURNSThe whole of the facts and circumstances connected with the steamboats will be brought before the auditor when he holds his inquiry.
§ Mr. WEDGWOOD BENNHas the right hon. Gentleman any power to prevent the London County Council from selling steamboats which cost £6,000 for £300?