Government Departments (Payments)

33.

Mr. Ivor Thomas
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is now able to make a statement on the  practice of Government Departments when moneys are collected owing to a mistake of law.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Stafford Cripps)
This question is still under consideration.

Mr. Thomas
Can the Chancellor give an assurance that a public answer will be given on this question, and would he tell me if I can usefully put a Question down again?

Sir S. Cripps
I am afraid I could not answer the last part of the question, but no doubt during the last part of the summer.

Mr. Thomas
Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman give a public answer to the Question?

Sir S. Cripps
Certainly.

Mrs. Nichol
Will my right hon. and learned Friend also take into consideration a statement on Government practice where money has failed to be collected owing to a mistake in the law?

Mr. Wilson Harris
Why should there be any need to consider what action has been taken when a Government Department has money which palpably does not belong to it?

Sir S. Cripps
It is necessary because it is a very complicated matter.