Mr. R. Duckworthasked the Minister of Health how many charters of incorporation of boroughs have been granted in the last two years; and what is the policy of the Department towards the amalgamation of urban districts prior to incorporation with the object of reducing the number of relatively small authorities?
§ Mr. BernaysEighteen, Sir. As regards the second part of the question, my right hon. Friend is generally in favour of the amalgamation of small urban districts that adjoin each other with a view to strengthening the financial position and improving the administration of the areas concerned.