§ Mr. George Cunningham asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, in the light of the facts stated in articles which have appeared in the Daily Star, he will introduce legislation to alter the criteria on which bodies may be accorded charitable status by the Charity Commission, to prevent the recognition as charities of pseudo—religious cults.
§ Mr. Raison:There is nothing in the articles which would justify amending the law relating to charitable purposes. If there is evidence of abuse in the case of a registered charity, the Charity Commission has power to take action in certain circumstances. If criminal offences are alleged, they can be dealt with under the criminal law.
410WMr. George Cunningham asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many organisations claiming to be churches or religious orders are currently registered as charities by the Charity Commissioners.
§ Mr. Raison:This information is not available.