§ Mr. J. BAKERasked the Minister of Health whether the stone-breaking task 1089W instituted in any casual ward under the Metropolitan Asylum Board will be performed by each man in a solitary cell or by men in association in the open air, or otherwise?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI am informed that this task will be performed in separate compartments and not in the open air.
§ Mr. BAKERasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the increasing number of unemployed men and boys who are sleeping in casual wards while in search of work, he will call for special reports from his inspectors as to the state of the wards, in particular as regards the supply of sleeping accommodation and of bathing facilities; and, should any of these wards be found to be below the standard laid down by his Department, will he bring pressure to bear on the recalcitrant local authorities to bring their wards up to the standard laid down?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe conditions of the casual wards are always the subject of consideration by my officers when inspecting Poor Law institutions, and, if necessary, pressure is always brought to bear upon the Boards of Guardians to secure any necessary improvements. I see no reason for any special action of the kind suggested.