HC Deb 21 April 1953 vol 514 cc804-5
37. Colonel Gomme-Duncan

asked the Secretary of State for War what guidance he has given to commanding officers of Scottish units, which have been disbanded or amalgamated, on the disposal of funds and property which belong to those units by virtue of trusts formed under Scottish law.

Mr. Head

The question of legal jurisdiction over charitable trusts is very complicated. Colonels of Scottish regiments have been told that they may apply to either the Scottish legal authorities or the Charity Commissioners for their schemes.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Can we be quite certain from the reply of my right hon. Friend that the Charity Commission, which refers to England and Wales only, has any jurisdiction whatever over funds set up under Scottish law? If that is not the case, can we be certain that no further action will be taken by them until the point has been settled?

Mr. Head

I am not a lawyer, still less a Writer to the Signet, but I think that is the case, although I will confirm it.