HC Deb 03 July 1933 vol 280 cc14-5
26. Mr. THORNE

asked the Minister of Health what period is allowed by his Department to local authorities to present returns after the financial year ending in March; and whether any penalties are imposed for non-compliance with the regulations?

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

Under the statutory provisions in force, the period allowed to local authorities for making their annual returns of receipts and expenditure differs for different classes of authorities. There is no obligation on many of the larger authorities (including county councils and town councils) to render the returns until one month after the completion of the audit for the financial year. The penalty for non-compliance is a fine not exceeding that; I should have to have notice of the £20, to be recovered by action in the High Court.

Mr. THORNE

Are there any defaulters at the present time?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

There are no defaults.

Mr. THORNE

I mean those who are not sending in returns in accordance with their statutory obligations?

Mr. SHAKESPEARE

I would rather have notice of that question.