asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the scale of relief now being granted by the Southwark Board of Guardians is from 6s. to 10s. below the scale approved by him; and whether he will make representations to the Board in question with a view to the scale being raised to a proper level?

I am informed that while the Southwark Board of Guardians look to this scale for guidance, they have not themselves adopted any fixed scale. They consider each case on its merits, and where they are satisfied that a lower amount than the Common Poor Fund scale is adequate, such lower amount is quite properly given. It is no part of my duty, and I certainly have no intention, of making representations to a board of guardians who are not exceeding the scale I have laid down.