23. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSONasked the Minister of Health if, in view of the injurious effect of local rates on the shipbuilding industry, referred to in the Report of the joint committee of shipbuilding employers and employés, he is prepared to consider the recommendations which they make thereon?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe Report mentioned has not yet been referred for my consideration. I may say, however, that the provisional proposals for the reform of the Poor Law system issued by me would have considerable bearing on the principle of the first recommendation mentioned by the hon. Member. As regards the second recommendation I am, as at present advised, doubtful whether the suspension of sinking funds would be a sound policy.