§ 40. Sir K. WOODasked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to introduce legislation making provision for some collateral security which would protect ratepayers against illegal payments by boards of guardians in addition to the ordinary power of surcharge?
Mr. GREENWOODI have been asked to reply. The Government will welcome any suggestions on this subject, but as my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister indicated in the course of the Debate last Tuesday, probably the most effective security would be found in a reform of the present Poor Law system which, as the hon. Member knows, the Government propose to take in hand.
§ Sir K. WOODHave the Government devised any proposals to meet this point?
§ Mr. LANSBURYWhen considering this matter, will the Government consider getting collateral security against other public bodies, such as the London County Council, who have on two occasions been taken into court and surcharged and who have had the surcharges remitted?