HC Deb 08 July 1943 vol 390 cc2233-4
41. Mr. Doland

asked the Minister of Health how much money, due from parents of children evacuated at public expense, has been irrecoverable owing to the limitation period of six months for proceedings against parents in courts of summary jurisdiction, laid down in Section 11 of the Summary Jurisdiction Act, 1848; and whether, in such cases, it is proposed to proceed against defaulting parents in the county courts for the whole of the arrears?

Mr. E. Brown

Separate aggregate records are not available showing the amounts irrecoverable from this cause. I am advised that proceedings in the county court are not available under Defence (General) Regulation 22, under which action is taken.

Mr. Doland

Will my right hon. Friend consider some amending legislation to supersede this 95-year-old Act?

Mr. Brown

I will look into the matter, but, as my hon. Friend knows, every effort is made to bring cases within the six months.

Mr. Doland

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, owing to the lapse of time, sums owing by these parents sometimes amount to £60, £70 or £80?