§ 98. Mr. RAMSDENasked the President of the Local Government Board whether he will take into consideration the great decrease in the purchasing power of money whereby practically all the public libraries are being crippled through lack of adequate funds; and whether he will accordingly consult the various local authorities of the country to ascertain their needs respecting an increase in the 1d. rate allowed for library purposes?
§ Major ASTORMy right hon. Friend does not think it is necessary to make the inquiry suggested. Experience does not suggest that local authorities will hesitate to put forward their views in the matter.