HC Deb 10 March 1997 vol 292 c32W
Mr. Frank Field

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment he has made of the efficiency and effectiveness of the accountants joint disciplinary scheme; and what plans he has to introduce a statutory scheme for investigating complaints concerning firms of accountants. [18942]

Mr. John M. Taylor

The joint disciplinary scheme is operated jointly by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants to investigate cases of public concern involving their members. The bodies are currently reviewing how the scheme should operate in the future.

The JDS has an important public interest role and I am taking a close interest in the current review. I have no plans to introduce a statutory scheme.