HC Deb 12 June 1917 vol 94 c748
29. Sir MAURICE LEVY

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many men of military age are employed in the Department of the Petrol Control Committee; whether there are any special reasons for their employment; and whether he will make arrangements for the work being done by men over forty-one years of age?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Albert Stanley)

Of a total staff of 306 employed by the Committee, twenty-seven are men of military age, most of whom are in low medical categories, whilst four have been discharged from the Army. Only seven are fit for general service, and they are Civil servants of experience whose services at present cannot be dispensed with.

Sir M. LEVY

Was it previously understood that men who control the use of petrol must have a knowledge of the work of a Civil Service Department?

Sir A. STANLEY

I think it is necessary to have the men of experience required for this particular work.

Sir H. CRAIK

Is it a fact that young men with no experience whatever have been appointed?

Sir A. STANLEY

I hope the hon. Member will give me notice of that question.