HC Deb 23 March 1984 vol 56 cc605-6W
Mr. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce legislation to prevent regional councils in Scotland from using their educational, social work and other funds to sustain industrial action taken by trades unions; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ancram

It is for each local authority to satisfy itself that any expenditure it incurs is within its powers. Arrangements already exist, through the audit provisions of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, for dealing with any expenditure of a local authority which is contrary to law.

Mr. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will order an extraordinary audit of Fife regional council in respect of (a) expenditure on free school meals for striking miners' children and (b) interest-free loans given to the National Union of Mineworkers under section 12 of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 968; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ancram

There is no statutory provision for my right hon. Friend to order an extraordinary audit but the auditor is already aware of the reported expenditure.