Board of Guardians (Default) Act 1926 facts for kids
Act of Parliament | |
![]() |
|
Long title | An Act to provide in the case of default by a board of guardians for the reconstitution of the board; and for matters arising out of the default or consequential on the reconstitution. |
---|---|
Citation | 16 & 17 Geo. 5. c. 20 |
Dates | |
Royal assent | 15 July 1926 |
The Board of Guardians (Default) Act 1926 was an important law passed in Britain on July 15, 1926. This law gave the Minister of Health special power. The Minister of Health was a government official in charge of public health. This power allowed him to take action if local groups, called Boards of Guardians, were not doing their job well. These boards were responsible for helping people who were poor or in need. If a board was failing, the Act allowed the government to replace its members with new officials.
Contents
What Was the Board of Guardians Act?
This law, known as the Board of Guardians (Default) Act, was created to make sure local aid was managed properly. It was a British Act of Parliament. An Act of Parliament is a law made by the country's government. This specific law focused on how local groups helped people.
Why Was This Law Needed?
Before this Act, local groups called Boards of Guardians managed aid for the poor. They were part of a system known as the Poor Law. Sometimes, these boards struggled to do their job. They might not have enough money. Or they might not manage their funds well. This could lead to problems for the people who needed help.
How Did the Act Work?
The Act gave the Minister of Health a new power. If the Minister thought a Board of Guardians was failing, he could "reconstitute" it. This meant he could change or replace the board. The Minister could remove the existing members. Then, he could appoint new government officials. These new officials would take over the board's duties. This ensured that aid continued to be provided. It also made sure funds were managed correctly.
Impact of the Act
The Board of Guardians (Default) Act 1926 was a significant step. It showed the government's willingness to step in. It ensured that local services for those in need were maintained. This law helped to make sure that people received the support they needed. It also brought more central government control over local services.