Mr. J. Enoch Powellasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what functions the Department of Health and Social Security in Northern Ireland discharges which in England and Wales are discharged by local authorities.
§ Mr. AlisonThe Department of Health and Social Services is responsible for the provision of personal social services in Northern Ireland—a responsibility similar to that of local authorities in Great Britain.
The Department's functions are exercised by the health and social services boards in Northern Ireland on behalf of the Department.
Accounting year ending in 1974 1975 1976 £ million £ million £ million Total amount held by all firms of solicitors in clients' accounts at year end 662 753 760 Interest retained in year net of amounts paid over to clients 21 21 19 Per cent. Per cent. Per cent. Proportion of average firm of solicitors' income derived from this source 4.3 3.6 2.8 Scotland: The Royal Commission on legal services in Scotland is examining the remuneration of solicitors. Its report is expected next year. No information is presently available. Northern Ireland: No information is available.