HC Deb 18 March 1912 vol 35 c1524
Mr. KING

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he was aware that two gentlemen recently retired from the public service had become directors of Armstrong's, Limited; whether these gentlemen held retiring pensions; whether, if so, their pensions were held on conditions which precluded them accepting such directorships; and whether, in future, retiring pensions would be granted subject to the condition that the Treasury might exercise a veto on their holders joining the boards of public companies?

Mr. MASTERMAN

The answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the affirmative; to the third and fourth in the negative. The Treasury have no legal right under existing powers to impose a condition of the kind suggested.

Mr. KING

Will the hon. Gentleman give us an opportunity, on the Estimates or otherwise, of discussing this whole question, which is very important?

Mr. MASTERMAN

That question should be addressed to the Prime Minister.