§ Considered in Committee, under Standing Order No. 69.
§ [Captain BOURNE in the Chair.]
§
Motion made, and Question proposed.
That, for the purposes of any Act of the present Session to consolidate with amendments certain enactments relating to public health, it is expedient to authorise the payment out of moneys provided by Parliament of any expenses incurred by the Minister of Health under the said Act in exercising any powers of a council, port, health authority, or joint board subject, however, to the recovery of those expenses from the council, authority, or board in question in manner provided by the said Act." [King's Recommendation signified.]—[Sir K. Wood.]
§ 11.38 p.m.
§ Sir K. WOODThis is a small matter. For the reasons stated in the Financial Memorandum, this Financial Resolution is little more than a formality. It is required for the purpose of Clause 324, 2402 which enables the Minister to default a local authority. The only difference between the Clause and the existing law is that the Clause, following more modern practice, states in terms that expenditure incurred by the Minister in exercising these powers is to be defrayed out of moneys provided by Parliament pending its recovery from the local authority. This is to enable me to act immediately where I have to take action in default of the local authority, and to proceed afterwards for the recovery of any costs that may have been incurred. But I doubt whether such a case is ever likely to arise, because generally an intimation from the Minister is sufficient.
§ Mr. KELLYIs the Minister taking more powers to recover the money than has been the practice in the past?
§ Sir K. WOODNo, Sir.
§ Resolution to be reported To-morrow.