HC Deb 01 March 1972 vol 832 c407
40. Mr. Marten

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will list the powers under which Select Committees of this House will be able to send for persons, papers and records in investigating expenditure of British taxpayers' money in the European Economic Community; and if he will describe the form which Ministerial replies will take to recommendations relating to this expenditure.

Mr. Whitelaw

Select Committees have such power to send for any persons, papers and records as the House may expressly authorise. The form of ministerial replies to recommendations made by any Select Committee must depend on the recommendations.

Mr. Marten

How can my right hon. Friend take responsibility for expenditure for which he is not responsible?

Mr. Whitelaw

I think these are all matters which were properly considered in the various Committees we have set up to look at our future relationship with the European Community.