§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what is his reason for increasing the fee payable to the certification officer on application for approval of a proposed instrument of amalgamation or transfer of engagements. [27172]
Mr. John M. TaylorThe increase in fee is required to recover the full cost of providing a service to process applications for approval of proposed instruments.
§ Mr. PrenticeTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what is his reason for increasing the fee payable by a trade union for a certificate of independence. [27171]
Mr. TaylorThe increase in fee is required to recover the full cost of providing a service to process applications for certificates. In 1993–94, when the fee covered just 10 per cent. of the full cost, the Government decided to 467W move in stages to full cost recovery. The level of fee has subsequently risen in steps and 1996–97 will be the first year in which the full cost will be recovered.