HC Deb 05 May 1938 vol 335 cc1024-5
60. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Minister of Health whether local government auditors are instructed to report to his Department any alleged excessive expenditure on public assistance; and, if so, what action is taken?

Sir K. Wood

The duties of district auditors are laid down by the Local Government Act, 1933, and no instructions are given to them departmentally in relation to any alleged excessive expenditure on public assistance. A copy of any report is transmitted by the Auditor to the Minister, who takes such action as he may consider appropriate.

Mr. Williams

In how many cases of that kind which have been reported by the district auditors has the Minister of Health insisted on local authorities reducing their expenditure on public assistance?

Sir K. Wood

Obviously, I cannot reply to that question without notice.

Mr. Williams

Will the Minister state whether or not there have been any cases where the Minister of Health has insisted on a reduction of public assistance expenditure?

Sir K. Wood

I should like to have notice of that question.