§ 50. Mr. LANSBURYasked the Prime Minister whether the Government will bring in legislation extending the life of Secton 1 of the Local Authorities (Financial Provisions) Act, 1921?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Major Boyd-Carpenter)I have been asked to reply. As was stated in reply to a previous question, this matter is receiving careful consideration. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Health has thought it advisable to ascertain the views of the boards of guardians and municipal authorities in the metropolis in regard to the proposal, and a copy of the circular letter which has been issued for this purpose is being sent to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. LANSBURYIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the Act under discussion lapses on 31st December, and that unless it is renewed very considerable hardship will be inflicted upon the ratepayers of the poorest boroughs in London, and it is no use sending me a copy of a circular which I have already received?
§ Major BOYD-CARPENTERThat is exactly what my right hon. Friend has had in mind in determining the point, and he will come to a decision which, if not Satisfactory to my hon. Friend, I hope will satisfy the Members of this House.
§ Mr. LANSBURYWhether the statement is satisfactory to me or not, will it be presented to this House and acted upon before the end of the Session?
§ Major BOYD-CARPENTERMy hon. Friend must know that that is quite an impossible question to answer because we are within a few days of the end of the Session.
§ Mr. LANSBURYIs the hon. And gallant Gentleman aware that almost on the first day of the Session the same question was put to the Prime Minister, and day after day we have been fobbed off in this manner? I should like to ask the Prime Minister whether he can give an answer to this question?