§ 31. Sir K. WOODasked the Minister of Health whether he can state the amount of the surcharges of the district auditor on the members and ex-members of the Poplar Council for 1922–23 on account of the payment of wages and salaries exceeding those which could reasonably and lawfully be paid out of the funds entrusted to the council; and whether he is taking any action in the matter?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYThe amount of the surcharge referred to for the year 1922–23 is £11,500. I understand that an appeal against it will be made to me, which I will in due course consider.
§ Sir K. WOODHas an appeal been lodged, and why is he not taking action in the matter?
§ Mr. WHEATLEYAs this is a case in which I shall have to act as judge, I cannot allow myself to be influenced by the House of Commons.
§ Mr. LANSBURYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that his predecessor wrote in answer to a request from the Board of Guardians sanctioning the payment of the wages and salaries in question.
§ Mr. WHEATLEYI am afraid at this stage I am not prepared to accept full responsibility for the action of my predecessor.