HC Deb 19 June 1918 vol 107 cc341-2
48. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Prime Minister whether he will be prepared to publish a list of all posts created since August, 1914, with the names and qualifications of the occupants of such posts and indicating in what way they secured their appointments?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer is in the negative. The value of such a return would not, in my opinion, be commensurate with the amount of work that its preparation would involve.

Mr. WATT

Is this request refused because of the shortage of paper?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It is refused on account of the work which it would involve.

Mr. HOGGE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the public impression is that many of those posts are filled by persons who could not command their present salaries in the open market?

Mr. BONAR LAW

That may be the hon. Member's impression, but I should be very sorry if it were the general impression, and I believe it to be quite unjustified. There is great difficulty in getting suitable people, and many of them are working for nothing.

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