§ 26. Miss BONDFIELD (for Miss LAWRENCE)asked the Minister of Health whether he will state the procedure by which he exercises his power of appointing district auditors; whether any advertisement is issued for this post or whether recommendations are invited; if so, from whom; and what qualifications are prescribed?
§ Sir K. WOODDistrict auditors are appointed by my right hon. Friend on the recommendation of the Departmental Promotions Board, from among assistant district auditors. Assistant district auditors are recruited either by means of an open competitive examination held by the Civil Service Commissioners or by the selection, in accordance with the usual Promotions Board procedure, of suitable established civil servants already serving in my Department. 858 Before the appointment is confirmed an assistant district auditor is required to pass an examination in accounts and audit, and in audit law and local government.
§ Mr. HARRISAre we to understand that it is not true to say that any auditors are nominated by the Government?
§ Sir K. WOODNo; that is an entirely unfounded statement.