§ Mr. PAGETasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the increasing burden to which local authorities are now subject in consequence of the contribution by the Exchequer for police pensions under the Local Taxation (Customs and Excise) Act, 1890, being a fixed grant; and whether, in view of the fact that police forces have consequently to be enlarged in consequence of the growth of population and as a result of the passing of the Police (Weekly Rest-Day) Act, 1910, the Government will revise the grant to such authorities and place it on a capitation basis?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThis matter cannot be considered apart from the general question of the relations between Imperial and local taxation. A Departmental Committee has recently been appointed to inquire into the general question with a view to legislation, and the Exchequer contribution to Police Pension Funds will doubtless be considered by that Committee.