asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his inspectors have taken steps to test the quality and weight of foodstuffs supplied to Scottish poor-houses; whether any separate record of reports on this matter is kept by his Department; and whether departmental action has been rendered necessary by the nature of such reports?

The responsibility for testing the quality and weight of food supplied to Scottish poor-houses rests entirely with the local authorities concerned. If deficiencies, either in weight or quality were discovered in any particular case, it would be for the local authority to take such action as might be necessary having regard to the terms of their contract with the supplier. The Department of Health for Scotland has poor-house dietaries submitted to it and considers complaints as to adequacy or quality. No complaints as to dietaries have been recently received.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of paupers at present in the poor-houses of Scotland; the number of casuals being relieved in those institutions; and the number of beds in such institutions other than for casuals?

As the reply is long, I propose, with my hon. Friend's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.