HC Deb 02 June 1932 vol 266 c1314
30. Mr. McKEAG

asked the Minister of Health if he will consider the advisability of introducing legislation to prevent local authorities from paying substantial retaining fees to retired officials in addition to pensions and allowances?

Sir H. YOUNG

Where the accounts of a local authority are subject to audit by the district auditor it is open to him to disallow any payments which are illegal or unreasonable. I do not think it necessary, or desirable, to fetter the general discretion of local authorities as is suggested in the question.

Mr. McKEAG

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Socialist majority of the Durham County Council has decided to pay to the county accountant, who recently retired, a retaining fee of £600 per annum, which, together with pension and allowances, makes a total annual payment to this retired official of £2,192, or nearly £19 per week more than—

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member is giving information.