§ Sir HENRY CRAIKasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether the Reports of Mr. Watson on the Buntingford Association were furnished gratuitously; and, if not, on what estimate the cost will be borne?
§ Mr. MASTERMANThe first Report was prepared by Mr. Watson while acting as actuarial adviser to my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the Bill was before Parliament, and is covered by the fee to be paid to him from the Treasury Vote for work done in that capacity. The second Report was prepared since his appointment as Chief Actuary to the National Insurance Joint Committee as part of his official duties without extra remuneration.
Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANSDoes the hon. Gentleman think it right that one of the Government officials should be instructed to enter into a matter of political controversy?
§ Mr. MASTERMANOne of the first duties of the officials of a Government Department is to furnish all accurate information upon matters needed by Ministers for the information of the public.
Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANSMay I ask whether the information was not furnished for the purpose of publication in the Press on a matter of acute political controversy which was then proceeding?
§ Mr. MASTERMANAs far as I remember it was promised in Parliament in Debate definitely by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.