HC Deb 16 November 1989 vol 160 cc483-4W
Mr. Michael Morris

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the responsibilities of the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies.

Mr. Ryder

The chief registrar is responsible in that post forthe public registry for mutual organisations registered under the Building Societies Act 1986, Friendly Societies Act 1974 and the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965; the prudential supervision of friendly societies and credit unions; the general supervision of the setting up and operations of industrial and provident societies; arbitration in certain disputes between members and registered societies, between savers and the Department for National Savings and between individual policy holders and assurance companies (in his capacity as Industrial Assurance Commissioner); as Accounting Officer, the Registry of Friendly Societies Vote (Class XIX Vote 3) which covers the expenditure of the Registry in support of the Building Society Commission and the Registrars.

He is also chairman and first commissioner of the Building Societies Commission.

Mr. Michael Morris

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer for how long the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies is appointed; and when the current contract comes up for renewal.

Mr. Ryder

The Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies holds his office during the pleasure of the Treasury, and subject to normal Civil Service conditions of service.

Mr. Michael Morris

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer who appoints the Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies.

Mr. Ryder

The Chief Registrar of Friendly Societies is appointed by the Treasury.