§ Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will explain in what respects the duties of a first-grade storehouse man differ from those of a second-grade storehouse man; whether it is frequently the case that when a first-grade storehouse man vacates his post a second-grade storehouse man is appointed to the post without necessarily receiving any rise of pay; and whether, in the circumstances, he will explain what useful end is served by maintaining the two grades?
§ Mr. McKENNAAs a rule, the duties of a first-grade storehouse man differ from those of a second-grade storehouse man in respect of the relative importance and value of the charges assigned to the respective grades. The growth and development of the supply services necessitates reallocation of the charges from time to time as their importance increases or diminishes, and a possible consequent change of duties as between the two grades. The scale of pay of the first-grade storehouse man is invariably higher than the scale of pay to the second-grade storehouse man. In the administration of large departments, such as that under consideration, the maintenance of two grades offers many advantages in the way of recognition of deserts. It is a form of organisation common throughout the Civil Service.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he will kindly answer the point as to "whether it is frequently the case that when a first-grade storehouse man vacates his post a second-grade storehouse man is appointed to the post without necessarily receiving any rise of pay"?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes, Sir. If the hon. Gentleman reads the answer I have given him he will see that particular point fully answered.