§ Mr. Hirstasked the Secretary of,State for Education and Science what action he proposes to take to prevent the abuse of public funds through students representatives incurring expenditure for political purposes; whether he will introduce legislation on this matter; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeMy right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General issued guidance in autumn 1983 which makes it clear that student unions in England and Wales may not spend money from funds subject to charitable trusts in supporting political causes which are not incidental to the objects of the charity. My right hon. and learned Friend will consider documented complaints alleging the misuse of such funds and will, where appropriate, act on them—as he has done in one case this week.