§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Employment how many trade union accounts, filed with the certification office, have qualified auditors' reports; which trade unions they are; and if he will ensure that proper accounting standards are required of trade unions by the certification office.
§ Mr. Harold WalkerI understand from the certification officer that the information sought could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. Trade unions and employers associations are required by the provisions of the Trade Union and Labour Relations Act 1974, as amended, to render annual returns, including audited accounts, to the certification officer, whose responsibility it is to ensure that the detailed accounting requirements of the legislation are fully complied with. Chapter 3 of the last annual report of the certification officer describes the steps he is taking to ensure compliance with the statutory requirements.