HC Deb 31 October 1995 vol 265 cc189-91W
Mr. McMaster

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the discussion he had with representatives of the Paisley group during his visit to the town during September; what is his

executive of Scottish Homes to discuss their accountability to him, his Ministers, Parliament, elected parliamentarians and the public; and if he will make a statement. [39190]

Mr. Raymond S. Robertson

My right hon. Friend and I meet the board of Scottish Homes from time to time to discuss a range of issues. I next plan to meet the board early next year. Scottish Homes is accountable to my right hon. Friend and, through him, to the House.

Mr. McMaster

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what are the arrangements for reporting possible cases of misuse of funds, maladministration and negligence involving Scottish Homes to(a) an independent ombudsman, (b) their internal auditors and (c) their external auditors; and if he will make a statement. [39174]

Mr. Robertson

Scottish Homes has a published complaints procedure. I have arranged for a copy to be placed in the Library.

Mr. McMaster

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the names, previous occupations, payments or allowances and next date for reappointment of the(a) chairman, (b) vice-chairman, and (c) members of the board of Scottish Homes. [39186]

Mr. Robertson

The information requested is set out in the table.

assessment of the scope to progress the initiatives discussed; what is his assessment of the potential to develop a partnership approach aimed at enhancing a positive perception of the town and the surrounding area; and when he next plans to meet representatives of the group and its parliamentary representatives to discuss possible actions and initiatives. [39182]

Mr. Michael Forsyth

I had a useful discussion with representatives of the Paisley group on 12 September and I encouraged them to develop their ideas and consult other agencies which have a potentially valuable role to play in improving perceptions of Paisley. There is clearly scope for enhancing Paisley's image by promoting the town's many strengths and a partnership approach is the most effective way of doing this. For that reason, I have written to the group encouraging it to build on other initiatives already under way in Paisley and to co-ordinate its activities to achieve the maximum impact. I have asked Renfrewshire Enterprise to meet the group and consider how it may assist them.