HC Deb 25 February 1976 vol 906 cc360-1
9. Mr. Madel

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied with the method by which complaints can be made to local ombudsmen.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Gordon Oakes)

Yes, Sir. I believe the present method of referring complaints is working satisfactorily.

Mr. Madel

Is the Minister aware that it is often difficult for members of the public to make complaints to the local ombudsman through local councillors, especially when they want to complain about water authorities? Will the Minister therefore initiate a change in the system so that a member of the public may make a complaint through an officer of the local authority or the water authority concerned, as that would simplify matters and make things easier for the public?

Mr. Oakes

I have some sympathy with the hon. Gentleman's remarks. A member of the public would go to a councillor at first, because normally that local authority would be aware of the complaint. However, a member of the public is entitled to approach the commissioner direct.

Mr. Alexander Fletcher

Is the Minister satisfied with the way in which complaints are handled by his Department? When will he respond to my several requests for him to make a personal investigation into the gross misuse of public funds—£1¼ million—in respect of Trinity Park House in Edinburgh?

Mr. Oakes

I am very satisfied with the way in which my Department deals with complaints.

Mr. Madden

In view of recent comments made by the Parliamentary Commissioner about the enormous interest shown by individuals in the service that he provides, will the Minister consider the possibility of complaints being made direct to the Parliamentary Commissioner rather than having to be processed through Members of Parliament?

Mr. Oakes

That question relates to the local commissioners. It is preferable for questions to be routed via a councillor so that the local authority is aware of the problem. However, the commissioner will have to issue an annual report. I take on board what my hon. Friend has said and what the hon. Member for Edinburgh, North (Mr. Fletcher) said about water authorities, which are now in a different position from when the Act was passed.