HC Deb 20 March 1911 vol 23 cc13-4
Mr. HOARE

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is prepared to give exceptional sanction under the Local Authorities (Expenses) Act, 1887, to expenditure out of the rates for school meals for necessitous children during the days on which the schools will be closed in connection with the coronation of His Majesty King George V.?

Mr. BURNS

As I have already stated, I do not consider that I can give administrative sanction under the Local Authorities (Expenses) Act, 1887, to the feeding of school children during holidays.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared favourably to consider an application from the London Education Authority for power to feed the children during Coronation week?

Mr. BURNS

I am always willing to favourably consider any application from any authority; but I can hold out no hope of altering my decision.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some 60,000 children in London will celebrate the Coronation by starving? Does he not think that worth his consideration?