HC Deb 16 February 1933 vol 274 cc1167-8
52. Mr. MOLSON

asked the Minister of Health, with regard to the special audit which he ordered of the accounts of the electricity undertaking of the Adwickle-Street Urban District Council, whether any irregularities were detected; whether any members of the council or officials thereof have received electric current or electrical appliances free or at an unduly low price; and whether any action has been or will he taken in regard to this matter?

Sir H. YOUNG

The answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the affirmative. The irregularities were, however, of a minor character, and I am satisfied that they were due to an error of judgment on the part of the official concerned. I am informed that the small amounts due have been or will be recovered, and that steps have been taken to prevent the occurrence of similar irregularities in future.

Mr. MOLSON

In the case of these appliances supplied at unduly low prices, were they, in the majority of cases, supplied to members or officials of the council?

Sir H. YOUNG

I am afraid I did not catch my hon. Friend's question; will he be so good as to repeat it?

Mr. MOLSON

In the case of these irregularities, were the appliances and current supplied at unduly low prices to members and officials of the council?

Sir H. YOUNG.

It is quite clear that I must not give an answer in the least degree inaccurate to a question of that kind, and, therefore, I would ask my hon. Friend to put down any question that he wishes to ask on that matter of detail.

Mr. MOLSON

Is there any likelihood of this report being published?

Sir H. YOUNG

No, Sir; it was a confidential report to me.