t of the
then value, exclusive of any allowance for past or future profits of
the undertaking, or any compensation for compulsory sale or other
consideration whatsoever of the tramway, and all lands, buildings,
works, materials and plant suitable to and used for the purposes of
the undertaking. It should be observed, however, that although the
local authority may themselves construct, and may acquire from the
original promoters a system of tramways, they may not themselves work
them without special authority of the legislature, and must in general
let the working of the undertaking to some person or company.

Bills in Parliament and legal proceedings.

Under the Borough Funds Act 1872 the urban district council may, if in
their judgment it is expedient, promote or oppose any local and
personal bill or bills in parliament, or may prosecute or defend any
legal proceedings necessary for the promotion or protection of the
interests of the district, and may charge the costs incurred in so
doing to the rates under their control. The power to incur
parliamentary costs, however, is subject to several important
restrictions. The resolution to promote or oppose the bill must in the
first instance have been carried by an absolute majority of the whole
number of the council at a meeting convened by special notice, and
afterwards confirmed by the like majority. The resolution must have
been published in newspapers circulated in the district, and must have
received the consent of the Local Government Board or of a secretary
of state, if the matter is one within his jurisdiction; and further,
the expenses must not be incurred unless the promotion or opposition
has been assented to by the owners and ratepayers of the district
assembled at a meeting convened for the purpose of considering the
matter, and if necessary, signified by a poll. Moreover, the expenses
must, before they can be charged to the rates, be examined and allowed
by some person authorized by a secretary of state or the Local
Government Board, as the case may be.

Under the Pawnbrokers Act 1872 the licences to pawnbrokers, which were
formerly granted by justices, are now granted by district councils.

Adulteration.

Under the Sale of Food and Drugs Acts certain important duties devolve
upon medical officers and inspectors of nuisances who are officers of
district councils. But for the