§ 55. Sir R. BLAIRasked the Home Secretary whether the Poplar Borough Council have refused to levy the police rate and were now only collecting rates for local administration; and, if so, what action has he taken to ensure that the ratepayers will not suffer?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe Poplar Borough Council have promised to pay the amount due under the precept issued on 1st January, but I understand that they do not intend to collect the rate that will become due under the next precept, which will be issued on 1st July. I hope they will not persist in that intention, but if the precept be not obeyed, steps will be taken to enforce the obligation.