§ Mr. McEnteeasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he proposes to take to lessen the extra duties imposed on local authorities, owing to war conditions, involving additions to their staff, a great increase in office and other accommoda- 52W tion and a consequent increase in expenditure; and will he cause a reduction in the issue of Orders, Regulations and explanatory leaflets and booklets by Government Departments to local authorities.
§ Sir J. AndersonI am aware that administration in the conditions of war has imposed heavy duties on local authorities, and I take this opportunity of saying that the Government are deeply conscious of the splendid contribution those authorities have made to the maintenance of administration over the period of war. I feel sure that Government Departments will not issue Orders and Regulations except where they are absolutely necessary, but it is only right to point out that in present circumstances, pressure is bound to continue to be heavy.