Mr. H. SAMUELCan the Leader of the House say whether he has any announcement to make in respect to an appointment to the vacant office of Food Controller.
§ The CHANCELLOR Of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)The Government have appointed Lord Rhondda to be Food Controller. They wish to recognise the spirit in which he has complied with the request. It must be evident to everyone that this office is no sinecure. It is of immense importance at the present time, but its holder is confronted with exceptional pitfalls and difficulties and is subject to the constant criticism of those with whom its operations inevitably interfere. Moreover, as head of the Local Government Board, Lord Rhondda has been actively engaged with proposals in regard to the public health—proposals which have already reached an advanced stage of maturity. He was therefore very reluctant to abandon his old office. But in response to the strong pressure on the part of the Prime Minister he has consented to do so.
Mr. SAMUELCan the right hon. Gentleman say who will be appointed President of the Local Government Board?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is only this morning that Lord Rhondda has consented, and we have not had time to come to any other decision.