HC Deb 22 June 1932 vol 267 c1097
40. Mr. DICKIE

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that the Houghton-le-Spring Rural Council is sending one member to each of three conferences at places distant from their area in defiance of his refusal to give his sanction, thereby incurring expenditure which he has forbidden; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Mr. Ernest Brown)

My right hon. Friend has seen a notice in the Press to the effect stated. Any expenditure incurred over and above that sanctioned by the Minister will come before the district auditor in due course.

Mr. DICKIE

Have the Ministry any powers, apart from the power of surcharge, which is very rarely exercised, for preventing this joy-riding at the public expense?

Mr. BROWN

I have given my hon. Friend an answer which outlines our powers. I think he will find that they are effective.