HC Deb 02 April 1919 vol 114 cc1196-7
68. Mr. NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the duties of the administrative officer of the Roads Branch involve the possession by him of war experience or of technical knowledge of the construction, maintenance, and repair of roads?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The duties of the administrative officer in charge of roads and bridges are, as his title implies, of an administrative rather than of a technical nature. The present administrative officer, who was previous to the War a member of the National Road Board, and during the War deputy to the Controller of Roads and Bridges, is also Deputy-Chairman of the two Committees concerned with roads—the (Joint) Roads Committee and the Road Stone Control Committee—and in these capacities has obtained adequate technical experience for his present post. His staff includes the necessary technical officers, who are members or Associates of the Institute of Civil Engineers selected for pre-war experience in matters pertaining to road administration and repairs.

69. Mr. N. CHAMBERLAIN

asked the Secretary of State for War the total number of officers employed in the Roads Branch under the Director of Lands on 31st December last, together with the total amount of their salaries; and if he will give the same particulars in respect of the branch as it exists at present?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am informed that no officers were serving in the Roads Branch of the Lands Directorate on the 31st December last as that branch was transferred from the Directorate of Lands and merged in the present establishment before that date. The total salaries of the present establishment, excluding unfit officers temporarily attached, amount to £5,800 a year.

Mr. N. CHAMBERLAIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman make personal inquiry as to whether the continued expenditure of public money is justified in this Department, which is commonly reported to live upon the work which it makes for itself?

Mr. CHURCHILL

In view of the opinion which my hon. Friend has about it, I will make, personally, inquiry into the matter.

Major PRESCOTT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the continuance of this unnecessary Roads Branch is causing much irritation not merely to the Road Board, but also to the county councils and the local authorities generally?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am obliged to my hon. Friends for bringing the matter to my attention. I will make personal inquiry into it, but, on the face of it, the answer is as I have given it.