HC Deb 22 June 1922 vol 155 c1492
25. Mr. L. MALONE

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the present and increasing importance of the Air Force, His Majesty's Government will consider raising the status of the Secretary of State for Air to the same as that held by the First Lord of the Admiralty and the Secretary of State for War?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am not prepared to propose an increase in the salary attached to any post in the Government at the present time, nor do I think it expedient to add to the numbers of the Cabinet.

Mr. HOGGE

This does not necessarily depend upon the amount paid to the Minister. Is the Prime Minister aware that the Secretary for Scotland does more work than any other Minister in the Cabinet?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is the only difference of which I know.

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

In view of the importance of the Air Service, should it not receive recognition in this respect equal with the other two arms of the Service?

Commander BELLAIRS

If you take the First Lord of the Admiralty and the Secretary of State for War out of the Cabinet that would put them all upon an equal basis?