HC Deb 14 July 1966 vol 731 cc1702-3
28. Mr. Harold Walker

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will appoint inspectors to investigate the affairs of the Company D.A.W.S. Limited pursuant to Section 165(d) (ii) of the Companies Act, 1948, following iregularities by employees, in view of the fact that persons managing its affairs have been guilty of misconduct towards its members.

Mr. Darling

A creditor has presented a petition to the court for the compulsory liquidation of the company. If a winding-up order is made, the Senior Official Receiver will investigate the company's affairs. A separate inquiry by an inspector is not, therefore, appropriate.

Mr. Walker

Is my right hon. Friend aware that serious irregularities have been reported in the Press concerning the conduct of some employees? Would he, therefore, under the companies law, seek out who is responsible and appoint an inspector as soon as possible?

Mr. Darling

There is no need at this stage to appoint an inspector. The court has fixed the hearing of the petition for 25th July and I understand that the company will not oppose the making of a winding-up order. As the matter is now before the court, it would not be proper for me to discuss the company's affairs.