HC Deb 18 December 1941 vol 376 cc2057-8
13. Sir Robert Bird

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the beneficiaries under the Welsh Church Acts view with alarm the prospect of the re-appointment of the Welsh Church Commissioners, after the expiry of their term in November, 1942; and whether he will consider introducing legislation to wind up the Commission or appoint new commissioners?

Mr. H. Morrison

The answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative, and as to the second and third parts I cannot now say what action it may be desirable to take when the continuance of the Commission comes up for review in December next year.

Sir R. Bird

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the beneficiaries under the Welsh Church Acts are rather discontented with him and with what they regard as the dilatory methods of the Commission, and in particular are discontented at finding that the expenses of the Welsh Church Commission exceed £1,000 per month?

Mr. Morrison

This body is faced with a very complicated task imposed upon it by Parliament. I am anxious, of course, that it shall proceed with all practicable speed and will do anything I can to assist that end, but it is a complicated business.

Sir Henry Morris-Jones

When will the right hon. Gentleman be able to get down to this business? Is he not aware that there is great dissatisfaction in Wales over the whole position?

Mr. Morrison

I have answered all the Questions that have been put to me.

14. Sir R. Bird

asked the Home Secretary whether the Welsh Church Commissioners have any scheme of superannuation for the personnel of the Commission to provide against the loss of their employment when the Commission is wound up, or for their absorption into the ranks of the permanent Civil Service?

Mr. Morrison

There is no special scheme of superannuation for the personnel of the Welsh Church Commission, who have all been engaged on the understanding that their employment is on a temporary basis. I understand however that the Treasury has agreed with the Commissioners that they may award gratuities to members of the staff in accordance with Section 4 of the Superannuation Act, 1887, under which gratuities are calculated for unestablished Civil Servants. As regards employment in the Civil Service when the Commission ceases, an endeavour will be made to absorb the staff into the Service. No guarantee can be given as the matter must be considered in the light of circumstances then prevailing, and must be subject to the suitability of the officer concerned.

Sir R. Bird

I should like to thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, which, I am sure, will give great satisfaction to those concerned.