o the transaction and management
of their business. Three members must be present to constitute a
quorum. At the annual meeting, which is held as soon as convenient
after the 15th April in each year, a chairman for the succeeding year
has to be appointed. He presides at all meetings, and in his absence
another member appointed by the meeting takes his place. Questions are
determined by the majority present and voting, the chairman having the
casting vote. Minutes are taken and, if signed at the meeting or the
next ensuing meeting, are made evidence. The officers of the council
consist of a clerk, a medical officer, a surveyor, one or more
inspectors of nuisances and a treasurer. Of these all but the medical
officer of health and inspectors of nuisances hold office at pleasure
and receive such remuneration as the council may determine. If the
urban district is a borough, the town clerk and borough treasurer
fulfil the same office for purposes of the Public Health Acts. The
salaries of the medical officer of health and inspectors of nuisances
are, as to one moiety thereof, paid out of "the exchequer contribution
account" by the county council, if they are appointed in accordance
with the requirements of the Local Government Board as to
qualification, appointment, duties, salary and tenure of office. The
orders of the Local Government Board as to these matters are set out
in the _Statutory Rules and Orders_. District councils may also employ
such other officers and servants as may be necessary and proper for
the fulfilment of their duties. Officers and servants are prohibited
from being concerned or interested in any bargain or contract made
with their council, and from receiving under cover of their office or
employment any fee or reward whatsoever other than their proper
salaries, wages and allowances, under penalty of being rendered
incapable of holding office under any district council, and of a
pecuniary penalty of L50. There are some exceptions to this provision
somewhat similar to those already mentioned with respect to the
disqualification of members of the council. It may be mentioned here
that by an act, called the Public Bodies' Corrupt Practices Act 1889,
severe penalties are imposed alike upon members and officers of public
bodies for corruption in office.

Committees.

A district council may appoint committees consisting wholly or pa