HC Deb 16 May 1984 vol 60 cc356-7
13. Mr. Yeo

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce a system of compulsory registration for all charities in Scotland.

Mr. Ancram

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend does not consider that any benefits of introducing such a system in Scotland would justify the expenditure of public resources.

Mr. Yeo

As all charities enjoy tax concessions and, therefore, all taxpayers are indirect financial contributors to charities, does my hon. Friend agree that it is unsatisfactory for taxpayers not even to be able to find out the names of Scottish charities which they are supporting, let alone ascertain more important financial information about those organisations? Does he agree that the only way in which the situation can be rectified is for a system of compulsory registration to be introduced?

Mr. Ancram

I appreciate the points made by my hon. Friend, but the cost of setting up a register would also be borne by the taxpayer and there has been little evidence of any need for compulsory registration in the public interest and little evidence that it would secure benefits or prevent abuses. However, if there are difficulties or abuses that have come to my hon. Friend's attention, I shall consider them.