§ 15. Mr. SHEPHERDasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that an inspector of his Department has recently informed the Gisborough Board of Guardians that they must not discharge casuals from the workhouse on Sundays; and whether this is in accordance with Regulations?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe inspector has informed the guardians that they should see that better compliance with the Regulations is enforced. The Casual Poor Act, 1882, and the Casual Poor (Relief) Order, 1925, provide that a casual may not discharge himself on Sunday unless there are special circumstances which, in the opinion of the master, require that he should be discharged on that day.
§ Mr. SHEPHERDMay I take it that boards of guardians have discretionary powers to keep these men in?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIt is not a question of the board of guardians. It is within the discretion of the master of the workhouse.