HC Deb 24 November 1884 vol 294 cc248-9
SIR H. DRUMMOND WOLFF

asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether Sir William Gurdon has as yet elected whether he will continue his Parliamentary candidature, or resign his appointment in the Civil Service?

THE CHANCELLOE OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. CHILDERS)

In answer to the hon. Member's Question, I am sorry to have to state that Sir William Gurdon has elected not to retire from his candidature, and that he has been informed that this decision is incompatible with his retaining his appointment in the Treasury later than the end of January. This date was named because there would be considerable public inconvenience in giving effect to changes among the principal officers of the Treasury during the period in which the Estimates are in course of preparation. I ought to add that Sir William Gurdon has been most scrupulous in the performance of his duties at all times, and not less so during the last few months, in proof of which I may mention that during the Recess he has, in addition to his ordinary work, represented the Treasury on two Committees of Inquiry.

SIR H. DRUMMOND WOLFF

Inasmuch as the Chancellor of the Exchequer has given an electioneering testimonial in favour of his clerk, I should like to know why, in contravention of the orders recently given in a Treasury Minute, Sir "William Brampton Gurdon is allowed to make a convenience of the Civil Service while prosecuting his candidature?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. CHILDERS)

I did not give any electioneering testimonial in favour of my clerk. What I did was to state that Sir William Gurdon was one of the most distinguished members of the Civil Service, and performed his duties well. I am sorry that the hon. Member opposite should have made that remark.

SIR H. DRUMMOND WOLFF

I entirely adhere to it.

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. CHILDERS)

I have already given reasons why, in the interests of the Public Service, it would be exceedingly inconvenient for Sir William Gurdon to retire during the preparation of the Estimates. As soon as the preparation of the Estimates is completed he will retire.

MR. GORST

asked the right hon. Gentleman whether any undertaking had been required from Sir William Brampton Gurdon not to prosecute his candidature during the period he would remain in office?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. CHILDERS)

I did not think it necessary to ask Sir William Gurdon such a question. He is a gentleman of judgment and discretion. [Laughter from Lord RANDOLPH CHURCHILL.] The noble Lord thinks that nobody is a man of judgment and discretion except himself. I have no doubt that Sir William Gurdon will do what is right in the circumstances.