HC Deb 23 July 1908 vol 193 cc362-3
MR. O'SHAUGHNESSY (Limerick, W.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he received a copy of a Resolution passed by the No. 1 Limerick Rural District Council requesting that in future auditors be appointed by competitive examination, and stating that the present appointment of auditors goes by favouritism; and whether he intends to take any steps to throw open to the people of Ireland these appointments.

MR. BIRRELL

The Resolution has been received. It is not intended to throw open to public competition the appointment of auditor under the Local Government Board. Very special qualifications are necessary, and the Board invariably select persons who in their opinion possess these qualifications in the highest degree. The persons selected have in all cases to satisfy the Civil Service Commissioners as to their literary and expert qualifications.

MR. O'SHAUGHNESSY

What qualifications are necessary for an auditor?

MR. BIRRELL

I should say a clear head, a great knowledge of figures, and perfect indifference to public opinion.

MR. O'SHAUGHNESSY

Have all the auditors under the Local Government Board these qualifications?

MR. BIRRELL

I am afraid not.