§ MR. CLELANDTo ask the Secretary to the Treasury hew many cases of special promotion have occurred in the Customs Department since the date of the Treasury Minute of 31st March, 1891, and in what numbers and to what rank respectively, were the promotions made; and whether the conditions laid down in the Treasury Minute with regard to special promotion have been observed in all cases.
§ (Answered by Mr. Runciman.) Speaking generally, all appointments in the direct line of promotion in the Custom service since 1891 have been made by merit and seniority combined, the 1319 degree of merit required increasing in accordance with the importance of the position to be filled. This is in accordance with the general rules laid down for the outdoor establishment in the Goschen Minute of 1891. If the hon. Member has any special class or individual in view, and would care to communicate with the Commissioners of Customs, they will be happy to give any further explanations he may desire, either in writing or verbally.