§ Sir R. GOWERasked the Minister of Health how many casuals, wayfarers and tramps (men, women and children) were admitted to casual wards and shelters in England and Wales during the years 1931 and 1933, respectively; and what was the total cost in each of such years of the accommodation afforded to them?
Sir H. YOUNGThe average number of casuals (including wayfarers and tramps) in receipt of poor relief in England and Wales in 1931–33 was 12,982, and in 1933–34 was 14,319. Separate figures as to the numbers of men, women and children are not obtained except on 1st January in each year. On 1st January, 1934, 95.9 per cent. were men, 3.7 per cent. were women and 0.4 per cent. were children under 16 years of age. Most of the casual wards are administered in connection with general institutions, and separate accounts relating to the cost of the relief of casuals in these institutions are not kept. It is, however, estimated that the total cost of the relief of casuals in 1931–32 was about £350,000. The corresponding figure for 1933–34 is not yet available.