HC Deb 28 June 1938 vol 337 cc1709-10
53. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how many property-investment societies have failed to send a return for the year ended 3rst December, 1937, to the Registrar of Friendly Societies?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Captain Euan Wallace)

Twelve societies have failed to furnish annual returns for 1937. Three other societies sent in returns without the signature of the auditor. These returns have been sent back to the societies for the omission to be rectified.

Mr. Bellenger

In the case of the 12 societies which failed to send in a return, is it proposed to take any action, and, if so, what?

Captain Wallace

In regard to these 12 cases, in three summonses have been issued but not yet heard; in four the registrar has given notice of his intention to cancel the registry; and the other five will be looked into.

Mr. Thorne

Is not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that trade unions are heavily penalised unless they send a return every year to the registrar, and why should not these societies be treated in the same way?

Captain Wallace

If the hon. Member had listened to my reply he would have seen that they are being dealt with.