HC Deb 15 December 1938 vol 342 cc2168-9
51. Sir Cooper Rawson

asked the Minister of Health whether the recommendations made by the district auditor to the Cornwall County Council for re-organisation of the highways accounts, including the separation of accounts for the operation of quarries, have now been carried out; whether the district auditor has made any further report; and whether, in view of the fact that about 20 county councils own or work quarries in connection with road works assisted from the Road Fund, he will ask the district auditors concerned to report on the methods of accounting in connection with these quarries?

Mr. Elliot

I understand that the extensive re-organisation of the accounting arrangements involved in the district auditor's recommendations is to be made by stages from the commencement of the next financial year. I have not received any further report by the auditor. As regards the last part of the question, it would not be competent for me to suggest what matters the district auditors should refer to in their reports to the local authorities concerned.

Mr. Lyons

May I ask whether it is a fact that, in spite of 12 months having elapsed since that report, there is still a complete absence of all proper accounts, and, if that be so, will my right hon. Friend make representations that the matter should be brought to a conclusion as speedily as possible?

Mr. Hannah

Is the Council paying the wages recommended by the Joint Industrial Council?