§ 43. Sir W. de FRECEasked the Minister of Health the reasons actuating his Department in prescribing a new form it; which local education authorities have to submit their accounts for audit; whether this is carried out at the wish of, or with the approval of, the Board of 2228 Education; whether he is aware that the educational authorities referred to, having only had very short notice of the contemplated change, are for the most part opposed to its coming into operation this year, and object to many aspects of its drafting on the ground of economy and effectiveness; and whether, under these circumstances, he will exercise the power he possesses of suspending the coming into operation of the form for one year and in the meantime consult the local authorities still further as to various improvements which could be made in it?
§ Sir A. MONDAs I have already stated, the form referred to is not a form of keeping accounts, but of an annual return which is required for the purposes of the Board, of Education, and was issued with their concurrence. It was explained last week that the Board of Education, while they cannot agree to postpone the introduction of the new form, are prepared to make concessions in respect of the year just ended. As regards the future, I shall be happy to consider any suggestions that may be made by local authorities for the improvement of the form.