16. Captain CROOKSHANKasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the functions of the recently appointed chief medical officer in his Department; and whether this is a new permanent appointment or merely a re-allocation of duties.?
§ Mr. AMERYThe post to which my hon. and gallant Friend no doubt refers is that of chief medical adviser, whose functions, as the title indicates, will he to advise me generally on all medical and sanitary matters arising in connection with the Colonies and Protectorates, including measures to ensure continuity of policy and co-ordination of progressive action between different administrations. The post is a new appointment, the creation of which has been authorised in the first instance for a period of three years.
§ Sir F. WISECan the right hon. Gentleman say what is the cost of this appointment?
§ Colonel WOODCOCKCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether this officer is already in receipt of a pension?
§ Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLEIs this officer to be in constant touch with the medical advisory committee?
§ Mr. HARRISHow is the appointment made? Is it open to competition, or is it a personal appointment?
§ Mr. AMERYIt is an appointment which the Secretary of State makes at his discretion, after carefully considering the merits of the different candidates.
§ Mr. MONTAGUEIs it a full-time appointment?