§ Mr. GILLETTasked the Minister of Health in how many cases, since the War, amalgamations of towns under one municipal control have taken place; and whether such amalgamations have been followed by any reduction in the rates and saving in administrative charges?
§ Mr. NEVILLE CHAMBERLAINSince the War there have been 14 cases where two or more urban areas have been wholly or almost wholly brought under one local authority. I will send the hon. Member a statement showing the rates before and after the amalgamation. Information as to administrative expenses cannot be given without special inquiry. The hon. Member will appreciate, however, that the comparison of figures without full knowledge of changes in local conditions is not likely to be of much value.