Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that the deputy-returning officers for the county divisions of Lancashire have not been paid for the services rendered at the General Election in December last; will he state why payment is delayed; and will he expedite the payment of these officials?
§ Mr. BALDWINThe accounts of the returning officer for the eighteen county divisions of Lancashire were rendered in portions at different dates, and gave rise to numerous queries and some correspondence, mainly owing to the absence of vouchers; hence the delay. It is hoped that outstanding questionns (relating to clerical assistance) will be disposed of shortly. I may mention that £9,000 has been advanced on account, leaving a balance of £2,789, subject to any necessary adjustment.