asked the Minister of Health whether the district auditor who is now examining the accounts of the Poplar Guardians has completed his inquiry; whether he can state the amount of any surcharges or proposed surcharges; and what action he is taking in the matter?

The adjourned audits were completed about a fortnight ago, and the auditor has reported surcharges of sums amounting to £3,699. I have not yet received any appeals against these surcharges.

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose proceeding in the matter and firmly administering the law?

I have no knowledge that the law is not being firmly administered now.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that premiums are being offered for rooms and houses so that foreigners can get under the Poplar Guardians?

Have all other boards of guardians a clean sheet against surcharges?

asked the Minister of Health whether he can gate the present position relating to the surcharges made by the district auditors in the cases of certain London boards of guardians; whether he has received any appeals; what is the nature of the same; and whether he can now announce his decisions?

I have received appeals in certain of these cases from the guardians surcharged, the ground of appeal being either that the auditor's decision is not supported by law or that it is equitable that the expenditure should be allowed. I am not at present in a position to announce my decision on the appeals.

When is the right hon. Gentleman going to come to a decision? Is he aware that there has been continued delay, and does he forget all the promises he made to be expeditious?

Will not my right hon. Friend consider taking all the surcharges at the one time and deciding them, thereby preventing any confusion between one borough and another?

I can only take the appeals as they reach me.

Will the right hon. Gentleman announce his decision on the matter before the House rises?

I will announce my decision as soon as it is made.