§ MR. HOOPER (Cork, S.E.)asked the Secretary to the Treasury, Whether there is a Treasury Rule in existence directing Local Government Board Inspectors in Ireland to employ local shorthand writers at local inquiries wherever possible; and, if so, whether he is aware that this Rule is almost systematically violated in the case of inquiries under the Labourers' Act, with the result that serious additional expense to the Government is involved; and, whether he will consider the advisability of issuing instructions to have the Rule adhered to in these cases?
§ THE SECRETARY (Mr. JACKSON) (Leeds, N.)I have not been able to find any specific Regulation as to the employment of local shorthand writers; but the Treasury is certainly in favour of such employment, where practicable, with a view to saving expense. It is necessary, however, not to hamper the discretion of the Department concerned by too rigid Rules. I will bring the matter before the Irish Government.