§ 37. Mr. W. THORNEasked the hon. and gallant Member for Tonbridge, as representing the Charity Commissioners, the number of meetings held by the trustees of the Henry Smith Charity (Kensington Estate) during the last 18 months; and how many cases coming 494 within Clause 22 of the scheme have been adjudicated upon during the same period?
§ Lieut.-Colonel SPENDER-CLAY (Charity Commissioner)The Commissioners are informed that the trustees of Henry Smith's Charity (Kensington Estate) have held three meetings during the last 18 months (exclusive of meetings of subcommittees of their body), and that nine applications from persons claiming to be entitled to share in the benefits of the charity under Clause 22 of the scheme by which the charity is regulated were adjudicated upon by the trustees during the same period.
§ Mr. W. THORNECan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether this particular charity publishes a balance-sheet every year?
§ Lieut.-Colonel SPENDER-CLAYOh, yes.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs it obtainable?
§ Mr. R. MORRISONIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that there appears to be a great deal of mystery about this particular charity, and that letters written by people to the trustees remain unanswered, and could he not see his way to advise the trustees to make a clear public statement, so that those interested may know exactly what is the position?
§ Lieut.-Colonel SPENDER-CLAYThere is no mystery about the accounts of this charity. They can be obtained, or I can supply the hon. Member with a copy of the balance-sheet if he desires to have it.