HC Deb 14 February 1961 vol 634 cc1228-9
28. Mr. J. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will consider amending the Regulations prescribing the forms in which the abstracts of accounts are to be made up by burghs and counties in Scotland so as to provide for the inclusion, clearly and separately, of accounts of all transactions, including inter-departmental transactions, arising out of the execution of capital works by direct labour

Mr. Galbraith

The Abstract of Accounts Regulations made in 1952 are, to some extent, rendered out of date by subsequent legislation, and their revision is under consideration. In considering any revision, the suggestion made by the hon. Member will be kept in view.

Mr. Henderson

I am very grateful to my hon. Friend for his reply. If he cannot fully accede to the request in the Question on the Order Paper, can I have an assurance that he and the Department will devise some means whereby the labour departments of boroughs and counties show the actual costs of the work carried out in those circumstances?

Mr. Galbraith

I think that the best thing is to see what happens as a result of the consideration of this matter. It is at present under review.

Mr. Mclnnes

Rather than do what his hon. Friend asks, will not the hon. Member take steps to ensure more timely publication of the Departments Annual Statistical Returns to this House, because I have had to complain of these Returns being six and seven years late?

Mr. Galbraith

I know that this is a very difficult matter, but it is partly the fault of the local authorities.

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