§ 78. Mr. AllenTo ask the Chairman of the Public Accounts Commission what was discussed at the Public Accounts Commission's last meeting.
§ Sir Peter Hordern (The Chairman of the Public Accounts Commission)The Commission's last formal meeting was held on Tuesday 25 October, when among the subjects considered were the National Audit Office's appropriation account for 1987–88, and its Vote on account for 1989–90, and the salaries of the C and AG and the C and A-G for Northern Ireland. In addition, four members of the Commission paid an informal visit to the Northern Ireland Audit Office on 1 November.
§ Mr. AllenI thank the hon. Gentleman for his reply. Will he elaborate a little more on the status of the C and A-G for Northern Ireland? Obviously, the Public Accounts Commission and a number of hon. Members are 430 extremely concerned about the status and salary of the C and A-G for Northern Ireland. Did the Commission have any further thoughts on that?
§ Sir Peter HordernThe Commission has considered these matters on many occasions, particularly in our report issued in July. However, we have made no further progress in increasing the Northern Ireland Comptroller and Auditor-General's salary. Indeed, his position is somewhat worse than originally intended as he is not due to receive the merit awards that are available to other permanent heads of other Departments in Northern Ireland. It is a very regrettable affair.
§ Mr. CohenAt its next meeting, will the Public Accounts Commission give some consideration to what should happen to Ministers of the Crown who cost the taxpayers millions of pounds in public money in neglect, for example, over the sale of the Royal Ordnance factories, when the Ministers who were to blame have subsequently moved on? Should they not be brought to account—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. I do not think that the hon. Gentleman can answer questions for which he has no responsibility.
§ Sir Peter HordernIt is a very interesting question but, alas, it is not for me.