§ Mr. WILLIAM THORNE(by Private Notice) asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the West Ham Board of Guardians have postponed the declaration of their rate for the six months ending September next on two occasions in consequence of the Government not definitely deciding as to whether they intend to loan to the guardians the sum of £300,000; that the guardians are compelled to declare their rate on Thursday, 23rd March; if he is aware that unless the loan is at once granted to the guardians, it will mean that the poor law rate of the union will be increased by 1s. 7d., which will make their total rate 6s. 1d. in the £; and if he can state what rate of interest will be charged on the loan if granted?
§ Sir A. MONDThe application of the guardians for a loan, and the terms upon which it should be granted, including the rate of interest to be charged, will be considered this afternoon by the Committee presided over by Sir Harry Goschen, and a decision will be given forthwith.
§ Mr. THORNEWill the decision be in the hands of the board of guardians to-morrow before they make their rate?
§ Sir A. MONDYes, it will.