§ 38. Mr. SHEPHERDasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that on the 8th instant two casuals were charged at the police court with refusing to do their task at the Kirkby Stephen casual ward; and that the magistrates dismissed the case on the grounds that the men's complaint justified their refusal to do the tasks owing to their having had no sleep after 11 p.m. owing to the cold; and whether he will take immediate steps to remove this cause of complaint both at Kirkby Stephen and elsewhere?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend's attention had not previously been drawn to the matter, but he is making inquiries.
§ Sir K. WOODAs the answer involves a tabular statement, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Following is the statement: