§ Mr. O'GRADYasked the President of the Board of Education whether he is aware that the trustees of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Bristol, have instituted an annual clothing fee of £5; whether this is in accordance with the will of the founder of the hospital, which states that the hospital is to be for poor children; whether the institution of this fee has the consent of his Board; and, if so, on what grounds was that consent given?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThis foundation is now governed by a scheme of the Charity Commissioners dated 9th August, 1892. Clause 52 of this scheme directs the governors to maintain and educate not more than 160 boys as foundation boarders, with powers to the governors to provide for the clothing of all or any of such foundation boarders as they may think fit. Owing to depreciation in the value of the endowment, it has been found necessary to reduce the number of foundation boarders. The Board have no information as to the institution of any clothing fee, but the governors are under no legal obligation to provide clothing, and would appear to be acting within their powers in instituting an annual clothing fee of £5, as stated by the hon. Member.