§ 52. Mr. WALLACEasked the Prime Minister whether the Government have yet come to a decision regarding the raising of the status of the Secretary for Scotland to that of Secretary of State for Scotland?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe Government are of the opinion that the change suggested in this question ought to be made, but, as the House knows, they are also of the opinion that the salaries attached to some of the other Cabinet offices are inadequate. We propose, therefore, to appoint immediately a Select Committee of this House to examine into the question.
§ Mr. WALLACEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think the case of the Secretary for Scotland comes under a special category, having regard to the fact that from his own office he has to discharge the functions of at least four Ministers, and the salary attached to his office is less than half that of an English Secretary of State?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI recognise fully the case put by my hon. Friend. There is a special case as far as Scotland is concerned.
§ Mr. HOGGEDo I understand that the Select Committee is to investigate the salaries of all Ministers?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, only certain offices which are low paid, but which are offices of very great responsibility.
§ The PRIME MINISTERImmediately.
§ Mr. WALLACEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman consider there is a special case for a special Bill for the Secretary for Scotland?
§ Sir F. BANBURYWill the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking to wait until the finances of the country are in a sounder position before increasing salaries?
§ Sir H. CRAIKIs it not the case that when the Bill for increasing the status and salaries of the Secretary for Scotland was before the House it was opposed by the hon. Member who puts the question?
§ Mr. WALLACEYes, on the ground that other Ministers were included.