MR. MONTAGU (Tower Hamlets, Whitechapel): I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether any Report or complaint has been received at the Home Office or by the Police Authorities respecting an area in Whitechapel intersected by Flower and Dean Street; whether the police have reported as to the existence of crime and vice in that locality; and if he will allow that Report to be made public; and whether any effort has been made by the owner or by the police to remedy the evils complained of?
   MR. MATTHEWS:  Yes, Sir; in December last the vicar of St. Jude's brought under my notice the evil state of the district referred to. The Commissioner of Police, whom I consulted on the subject, reported in substance that vice of the lowest type finds a refuge in parts of Whitechapel. The police do all in their power to keep violence and vice within bounds, but their duties are confined to the streets; in fact, extra constables are continuously on duty there on special beats. It is only by bringing influence to bear on the landlords that a better class of dwellings can be provided, and so, gradually, a better class of tenants secured. I regret to say that I am informed by the Commissioner that no substantial efforts have been made by the owners of the property in this neighbourhood to effect improvements, the neighbourhood being in much the same condition as it has been for some years. The lease of some of the property is running out, and it is to be hoped that at the expiration changes will be effected and improvements made.