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37
REPORT, 1899-1900.
conspicuous apathy of Londoners in regard to local
government there is no need to enquire. Doubtless
the apathy of Londoners has prevented many men of
means and reputation from taking a prominent part
in Metropolitan Government, and doubtless the
unattractiveness of local work has tended to. perpetuate
the apathy.
These remarks in no way imply a failure to
recognise the high character of many members of
existing Vestries ; nor do they imply any depreciation
of the vast amount of excellent work that has been
accomplished by them. Even as things are there has
been an enormous improvement in Local Authorities
and their management of public affairs.
The Vestries of several districts have conducted
their business with conspicuous ability and success,
and by the character of their members, as well as by
the erection of Municipal Buildings in which their
affairs are conducted, they have shown themselves well
fitted to be entrusted with more important duties,
and to win for their proceedings a greater share of
that public attention which is so essential to the more
effective discharge of public affairs. The London
Government Act aims at consolidating and extending
the powers of Local Authorities. It divides London
into Metropolitan Boroughs with a Mayor, Aldermen,