§ MR. TOMLINSONasked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether he is aware that Sir W. B. Gurdon is a candidate for the representation of West Norfolk in Parliament, and that he has in that capacity delivered political addresses; and, whether Sir W. B. Gurdon is still in receipt of pay as a senior clerk in the Treasury; and, if so, whether such action on the part of permanent Civil Servants is in future to be permitted by the Lords of the Treasury and the heads of other public Departments?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. CHILDERS)Yes, Sir; since the Question was put to me before, I have ascertained that Sir W. Brampton Gurdon has delivered political addresses as a candidate for West Norfolk. Sir Brampton Gurdon is a principal clerk in the Treasury; but he has now been informed that candidature for Parliament is inconsistent with employment in the permanent Civil Service. He is an officer of great merit and judgment, and we have every confidence that his decision will be a proper one. Should he decide on prosecuting a Parliamentary career, we shall greatly feel the loss of his services at the Treasury.