§ Mr. GILLETTasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the guardians of the following Unions, namely, Brigg, Longton, Lewes, Long-town, Hinckley, Narberth, St. Columb, and Torrington, have publicly stated at their meetings that they do not intend to carry out the statutory Regulations and the requirements of himself and his inspectors unless steps are taken to compel them to do so; and what steps does he propose to take in the matter?
§ Sir K. WOODMy right hon. Friend is not aware of the statements to which the hon. Member refers. He is, however, taking such action as seems appropriate to secure an improvement in the conditions of the casual wards, and on the whole ho has reason to be satisfied with the progress which has been made since the issue of the survey of casual wards in 1923. Constant attention is being given by my right hon. Friend's officers to the question of securing such further improvements as are still needed.
§ Mr. GILLETTasked the Minister of Health whether he can inform the House of the cost of the maintenance by the Poor Law authorities of vagrants; whether he has any estimates as to the amount earned by vagrants by their work; and whether he is prepared to impress upon boards of guardians the importance of proper sanitary and other conditions being provided for these persons?
§ Sir K. WOODI regret that information is not available on the subjects raised in the first two parts of the question. As regards the third part, my2034W right hon. Friend is making every effort to secure the improvement of the existing conditions where these are defective.