§ MR. T. C. HARRINGTON (Dublin, Harbour)asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, When the clause in the recent Treasury Minute respecting writers, which provides in special cases for the promotion of writers on the recommendation of the Heads of their Departments to the Lower Division, will be given effect to; whether the various Heads of Departments have already sent in their Reports, with the names of those writers whom they recommend for pro- 499 motion; and, whether, in view of the fact that it is now Dearly six months since the Minute was first issued, he can explain the delay in giving effect to the clause referred to?
THE SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY [Mr. JACKSON) (Leeds, N.)(who replied) said: In answer to the hon. Member, the Treasury Minute laid down that a limited number of copyists of admitted merit might be promoted to the Lower Division. It was not intended that any large number would be thus promoted; but the Heads of Departments have been asked and have sent in lists of names, which are being considered, and I anticipate that promotion will shortly be made of a limited number. It is not intended to increase the total number of Lower Division clerks.