§ 23. Mr. GROVESasked the Minister of Health the names of the persons appointed to act as the guardians of the poor of West Ham; what salary is to be paid to each person; whether due public notice will be given of the day, time, and place of any meetings of such guardians; and will the practice of providing facilities for the presence of the Press and public be maintained?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am sending the hon. Member a copy of the Order which contains the names for which he asks. The remuneration of the appointed guardians is still under consideration. With regard to the last part of the question I am not aware whether the guardians have yet come to any decision as to their procedure.
§ Mr. W. THORNECan the right hon. Gentleman state the number of assistants which these three Commissioners he has appointed will have?
§ Mr. GROVESIs the right hon. Gentleman going to allow the guardians whom he has appointed to meet in secret if they desire?
§ Mr. GROVESHas the right hon. Gentleman not given them any other instructions?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINNo, Sir. I have no special position with regard to these guardians. They are in the same position as any other boards of guardians.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill there be a Supplementary Estimate for these salaries until such time as the ratepayers can find the necessary money?
§ Mr. THURTLEIs not the man who pays the piper entitled to call the tune; and has not the Minister of Health authority over these guardians as to whether they meet in secret or not?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINBefore the right hon. Gentleman replies, may I ask him whether the great point of this whole business is not to save money for West Ham?