HC Deb 04 August 1925 vol 187 cc1163-4
57. Mr. LANSBURY

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that it is alleged by the chairman of the finance committee that one of the rate collectors employed by the Stoke Newington Borough Council has absconded with, approximately, £7,000 of the ratepayer's money; that the district auditor recently criticised the finance organisation of the borough; whether the suggestions he made had been given effect to; whether he is aware that there exists in the borough grave dissatisfaction as to the financial and administrative organisation of the council's business; and whether he will hold a public inquiry into all the circumstances relating to the missing rate collector and the organisation of the business of the borough generally?

Sir K. WOOD

My right hon. Friend is aware that the amount in question has been recently stolen by one of the rate collectors, and that the theft might have been prevented if certain suggestions made by the auditor at preceding audits had been adopted by the council. An extraordinary audit in connection with this particular matter has already been held at my right hon. Friend's direction and an audit of the whole of the accounts of the borough has been opened, at which any ratepayer can attend and make representations to the auditor. I may add that my right hon. Friend is informed that the council are themselves making a thorough investigation into the whole circumstances of the case.

Colonel DAY

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether this amount is covered by guarantee?

Sir K. WOOD

That question must obviously be put down.

Mr. J. JONES

Will the same treatment be given to West Ham? I want an answer to that question. Surely we are entitled to the same treatment. Our crime in West Ham is that we give relief to the people who want relief. Here are people robbing the ratepayers and they are getting a guarantee from the Government Give us the same treatment.

Mr. SPEAKER

The question deals with a charge of absconding.

Mr. JONES

I know. It is a case of absconding with public money, and the Government are guaranteeing the loss. Why cannot they guarantee us?