HC Deb 25 February 1914 vol 58 cc1763-4
73. Mr. CASSEL

asked whether the statements of any societies or branches show a deficiency in the administration account for the period 15th July, 1912, to 12th January, 1913; if so, what is the number of such societies or branches; and what number of societies or branches have applied to the Commissioners to carry forward the deficiency in respect of the period from 15th July, 1912, to 12th January, 1913, to the year ending 11th January, 1914?

Mr. BENN

For the reasons indicated in the answer I gave to the hon. Member on the 16th instant, the Commissioners have no complete information as to the numbers asked for. The information in their possession, however, shows administration deficiencies for the period stated in 356 cases, treating deficiencies in branches of a society and deficiencies in more than one country, in the case of international societies, as separate deficiencies. Applications to carry forward have been received in 289 cases. In most of the cases so brought before the Com- mission which have so far been examined the deficiency is such that it can be included in the 1913 account without being likely to cause a deficiency on that account.

Mr. CASSEL

Are we to take it in regard to the deficiencies that have occurred in 356 cases that they have been carried forward to next year?

Mr. BENN

I stated that in most cases, so far as we know, the deficiencies can be carried forward without expecting that there will be a deficiency in the following year.

Mr. CASSEL

In the other cases will the deficiencies be carried forward?

Mr. BENN

I cannot say without notice.