HC Deb 21 March 1934 vol 287 c1211
46. Mr. DINGLE FOOT

asked the Prime Minister what functions are now performed by, and what duties entrusted to, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster?

The PRIME MINISTER

The duties and functions of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster are to control the management of the Duchy Estates and Revenues and also within the County Palatine of Lancaster, to appoint justices of the peace and county court judges and to direct the administration of the estates of persons dying intestate and without kin and to perform various duties which in other counties devolve upon the Lord Chancellor and the Home Secretary. His salary is paid out of the revenues of the Duchy, and he receives no remuneration from the Exchequer.

Mr. FOOT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any other duties are performed by the present Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster?

Sir JOHN HASLAM

Will the right hon. Gentleman also take into consideration the fact that if there is any fault to be found with the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster the Lancashire members will see to it?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am perfectly certain that the last observation of the hon. Member for Bolton (Sir J. Haslam) is quite true. The Chancellor of the Duchy is used for a considerable variety of pressing and temporary duties.